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Chippewa  County 

WISCONSIN 

PAST  AND  PRESENT 

A Record  of  Settlement,  Organization,  Progress  and 

Achievement 


ILLUSTRATED 


VOLUME  II 


CHICAGO 

THE  S.  J.  CLARKE  PUBLISHING  COMPANY 
1913 


C54I 


LESLIE  WILLSON 


BIOGRAPHICAL 


LESLIE  WILLSON. 

A large  and  distinctive  contribution  to  progress  and  municipal  improvement 
in  Chippewa  Falls  was  made  by  the  late  Leslie  Willson,  who  became  identified 
with  the  state  in  1867,  was  for  a number  of  years  in  business  at  Eau  Claire, 
and  during  the  seventeen  years  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls  built  up  one 
of  the  largest  concerns  in  the  mercantile  district.  Throughout  his  long  and 
prosperous  career  he  was  one  of  the  best  friends  and  benefactors  of  his  home 
city.  He  was  not  sixty  years  of  age  when  his  course  was  finished.  In  every 
community  death  is  constantly  taking  its  toll  from  the  living,  however  valuable 
their  lives  and  services.  It  was  a conspicuous  member  of  Chippewa  Falls’ 
citizenship  whose  life  came  to  an  end  on  December  6,  1906,  and  the  people  of 
both  Eau  Claire  and  Chippewa  Falls  paid  many  tributes  of  respect  to  their 
former  associate  and  friend.  When,  a few  days  later,  his  body  was  laid  to 
rest  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery,  an  unusual  honor  was  paid  to  his  memory  in 
the  general  cessation  of  business  and  the  closing  of  all  stores. 

Leslie  Willson  was  a Pennsylvania  by  birth,  born  at  Sugar  Grove  in  Warren 
county,  May  1,  1847.  When  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age,  and  after  he  had 
received  most  of  his  early  education  in  Pennsylvania  schools,  the  family  went 
to  what  was  then  the  far  west,  locating  in  1862  at  Hastings,  Minnesota,  and 
soon  afterwards  at  Winona,  that  state.  His  father  for  upwards  of  twenty-five 
years  and  until  the  time  of  his  death  was  president  of  the  Merchants  National 
Bank  of  that  city. 

The  late  Leslie  Willson  was  twenty  years  of  age  when,  in  1867,  he  became 
associated  with  the  Eau  Claire  Lumber  Company  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin. 
Later  that  business  was  closed  out,  and  Mr.  Willson  subsequently  represented 
as  traveling  salesman  the  firm  of  Bell,  Conrad  & Company  of  Chicago,  selling 
teas,  coffees  and  spices  over  the  states  of  Wisconsin  and  Minnesota  for  a 
period  of  seventeen  years,  still  making  Eau  Claire  his  home.  From  1889  until 
his  death,  Mr.  Willson  made  his  home  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Twenty-four  years 
ago  he  organized  the  Chippewa  Valley  Mercantile  Company,  a wholesale  grocery 
house  of  which  at  the  time  of  his  demise  he  was  both  president  and  active 
manager.  In  the  beginning  it  was  a small  concern  but  under  his  able  and  practi- 
cal management  it  developed  in  the  course  of  years  into  one  of  the  leading 
mercantile  enterprises  of  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  Willson  erected  the  fine  ware- 
houses which  are  now  in  use  and  the  general  offices,  which  occupy  a space  of 

5 


6 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


one  hundred  and  fifty  by  one  hundred  and  twenty  feet  and  comprise  a large 
four-story  structure  of  brick  and  stone.  Practically  all  the  stock  in  this  com- 
pany was  owned  by  him.  To  no  small  degree  the  development  of  Chippewa 
Falls  as  a commercial  center  was  due  to  the  initiative  and  enterprise  of  the 
late  Eeslie  Willson.  He  was  numbered  among  the  most  capable  and  farsighted 
business  men  of  the  city  and  aside  from  his  individual  interests  took  an  active 
part  in  the  promotion  of  many  progressive  public  projects,  so  that  his  passing 
deprived  Chippewa  Falls  of  a valued  and  representative  citizen.  As  a business 
builder  he  had  few  equals  among  his  associates  in  northern  Wisconsin. 

His  success  in  business  he  again  and  again  converted  into  practical  assist- 
ance and  cooperation  in  behalf  of  the  general  welfare  of  Chippewa  Falls.  Public 
offices  and  places  of  honor  were  frequently  offered  to  him  but  he  preferred  to 
work  in  the  ranks,  although  he  was  always  present  with  his  counsel  and  gen- 
erous of  his  means.  It  is  said  that  Leslie  Willson  very  often  subscribed  liber- 
ally to  stock  in  order  to  locate  new  industries  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Almost  the 
only  office  ever  held  by  him  was  that  of  president  of  the  Progressive  League, 
which  he  accepted  under  protest.  Probably  a greater  tribute  was  never  ren- 
dered a man  by  his  fellow  citizens  than  that  conveyed  in  the  resolutions  and 
testimonial  written  by  the  Progressive  League  in  memory  of  Mr.  Willson,  a 
copy  of  which  is  framed  and  hangs  on  the  walls  of  the  office  of  the  institution 
which  he  established. 

His  place  in  the  community  was  recognized  by  all,  and  of  the  many  tributes 
paid  to  his  life  and  services  at  the  time  of  his  death,  one  of  the  best  is  the 
following  paragraph  quoted  from  the  leading  Chippewa  Falls  daily  paper: 
“Leslie  Willson  leaves  a place  that  cannot  be  filled  in  this  community.  He  was 
a forceful  character  and  striking  personality.  His  many  friends  were  loyal 
to  him  to  a marked  degree.  There  is  genuine  sorrow  throughout  the  community 
over  the  loss  of  a man  in  the  fullest  sense  of  the  term,  and  a friend  who 
loved  to  see  his  city  progress  and  develop.  Mr.  Willson  could  be  depended  upon 
to  aid  any  legitimate  enterprise  for  the  benefit  of  the  city.  He  was  a most 
potent  factor  in  the  Progressive  League  council,  and  doubtless  his  influence  in 
building  up  the  city  was  greater  than  that  of  any  other  man  in  the  League 
* * * He  did  his  work  modestly,  but  effectively,  and  solely  with  the  inter- 

ests of  his  fellowmen  in  mind.  A very  successful  business  man,  a highly  esteemed 
citizen,  and  a loving  husband,  Mr.  Willson  was  a high  type  of  manhood  that 
was  refreshing  to  meet.” 

On  the  1 6th  of  September,  1884,  Leslie  Willson  married  Miss  Nellie  Wilson, 
a native  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  and  a daughter  of  R.  F.  and  Martha  (Newton) 
Wilson,  the  former  a pioneer  lumberman  in  that  vicinity.  He  died  in  February, 
1903,  at  the  age  of  seventy-eight,  and  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery  at 
Eau  Claire.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  with  Mrs.  Leslie 
Willson.  Since  her  husband’s  death  Mrs.  Willson  is  continuing  the  business 
of  the  Chippewa  Valley  Mercantile  Company. 

A few  years  ago  she  erected  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery  a beautiful  chapel 
known  as  the  Leslie  Willson  Memorial  Chapel.  This  monument  to  her  late 
husband  was  built  not  merely  as  a superficial  structure  to  prolong  the  memory 
of  the  dead  but  as  an  institution  of  lasting  usefulness  for  the  public  and  a 
fitting  memorial  for  a man  who  did  so  much  for  Chippewa  Falls.  The  chapel, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


7 


modeled  after  the  architectural  lines  of  the  celebrated  Parthenon,  provides,  in 
addition  to  catacombs  for  the  immediate  family,  a beautifully  arranged  and 
decorated  chapel  for  funeral  services  and  a public  vault  where  the  people  may 
place  their  dead  temporarily  until  other  arrangements  are  made  for  their  dis- 
posal. The  entire  structure  is  built  in  the  most  permanent  manner  of  stone, 
cement,  steel  and  enameled  brick. 


SAMUEL  W.  SHAFER. 


Samuel  W.  Shafer  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section 
23,  Lafayette  township,  a property  which  he  developed  through  persistent  and 
intelligent  effort  from  a wild  tract  of  brush  land.  He  has  been  a resident  of 
Chippewa  county  since  1885  but  was  born  in  Williamsport,  Pennsylvania,  Octo- 
ber 17,  1868,  his  parents  being  Phaion  and  Mary  (Cline)  Shafer.  The  father 
moved  with  his  family  to  Chippewa  county  in  1884  and  settled  on  an  unim- 
proved tract  of  land  which  he  cleared  of  a heavy  growth  of  brush  and  timber' 
and  brought  finally  to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  enlisted  for  service  in 
the  Union  army  during  the  Civil  war  and  engaged  in  the  battles  of  Antietam, 
Fredericksburg  and  C'hancellorsville.  He  was  a democrat  in  his  political  be- 
liefs and  interested  in  the  growth  and  welfare  of  the  community.  His  wife 
passed  away  in  1885  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  The  family  is  of 
Pennsylvania-Dutch  origin  and  has  been  in  America  for  several  generations. 

Samuel  W.  Shafer  began  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Williamsport, 
Pennsylvania,  and  continued  it  in  Michigan.  He  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age 
of  sixteen  and  then  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  and 
hired  out  as  a farm  laborer  in  Chippewa  county,  continuing  thus  for  twenty 
years  thereafter.  In  1891  he  purchased  his  present  property  blit  for  some  time 
thereafter  engaged  in  its  cultivation  in  connection  with  his  farm  labor  in  the 
employ  of  others.  With  untiring  energy  he  cleared  the  property  of  the  dense 
growth  of  brush  and  timber  and  after  ten  years  every  foot  of  the  soil  was  broken 
and  the  work  of  development  begun.  Today  this  is  one  of  the  finest  properties 
in  his  locality  and  is  equipped  with  a comfortable  residence,  good  farm  build- 
ings and  excellent  machinery.  Upon  it  Mr.  Shafer  carries  on  mixed  farming  and 
his  well  directed  efforts  have  met  with  a gratifying  and  substantial  success. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  3d  of  June,  1903,  Mr.  Shafer  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Gertrude  Innes,  a daughter  of  William  and  Isabella  (Kennedy) 
Innes,  the  former  of  whom  came  from  Scotland  with  his  parents  in  1843,  when 
he  was  three  years  of  age.  The  family  settled  on  a farm  near  Milwaukee, 
where  William  Innes  grew  to  manhood.  He  afterward  followed  the  carpenter- 
ing trade  there  and  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  in  1872  settled  on  a farm  on  section 
28,  Lafayette  township.  He  cleared  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  and  in  the 
course  of  years  won  a gratifying  degree  of  success  and  accumulated  a substan- 
tial fortune.  He  resided  upon  his  property  until  1909,  when  he  retired  and  is 
one  of  the  most  highly  respected  citizens  of  Chippewa  Falls.  His  wife  passed 
away  in  1904,  when  she  was  fifty-eight  years  of  age,  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette 


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PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shafer  have  two  children,  Warren  L.  and  Isabelle  M., 
who  are  attending  school. 

Mr.  Shafer  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  a devout  member  of  the 
Methodist  church.  He  belongs  to  the  Fraternal  Reserves  Association.  He  is 
an  industrious  and  progressive  business  man  and  through  patience,  perseverance, 
honesty  and  integrity  has  met  with  success  in  his  farming  operations,  being  ac- 
counted one  of  the  substantial  and  representative  men  of  his  community. 


E.  H.  BURNHAM. 

E.  H.  Burnham  is  the  owner  and  editor  of  the  Holcombe  Journal,  an  eight- 
page  weekly  which  he  established  in  1906.  His  birth  occurred  in  Princeton, 
Minnesota,  on  the  31st  of  March,  1859,  his  parents  being  John  E.  and  Lucy 
Ellen  (Locke)  Burnham,  who  were  born,  reared  and  married  in  the  state  of 
Maine.  The  father,  a contractor  and  builder  by  trade,  removed  to  Minnesota 
in  1855  or  1856,  being  under  contract  with  the  government.  At  the  time  of  the 
outbreak  of  the  Civil  war  he  returned  to  Maine  and  attempted  to  enlist  but 
failed  to  pass  the  examination.  Going  back  to  Minnesota,  in  1865,  he  settled 
in  Anoka,  that  state,  and  there  both  he  and  his  wife  spent  the  remainder  of  their 
lives. 

E.  H.  Burnham  received  a high  school  education  and  for  many  years  was 
engaged  in  business  as  a photographer.  In  1906  he  came  to  Holcombe,  Wis- 
consin, and  established  the  Holcombe  Journal,  which  he  has  since  conducted 
successfully,  the  paper  boasting  an  enviable  subscription  and  advertising  patron- 
age. He  is  likewise  engaged  in  the  undertaking  and  embalming  business  and  in 
that  enterprise  has  also  won  success. 

Mr.  Burnham  is  a democrat  in  his  political  views,  acts  as  a notary  public 
and  is  also  chief  of  the  fire  department.  Fraternally  he  is  identified  with  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  He  has  won  the  high  regard  of  the  com- 
munity during  his  residence  in  Holcombe  and  has  a circle  of  friends  which  is 
constantly  increasing. 


A.  L.  BEIER,  M.  D. 

Dr.  A.  L.  Beier,  an  able  and  successful  physician  and  surgeon  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  since  1908  connected  with  the  State  Home  for  the  Feeble-Minded,  was 
born  at  Antigo,  Wisconsin,  January  1,  1884,  and  is  a son  of  W.  D.  and  Appa- 
lonia  (Lochman)  Beier,  the  former  a retired  farmer  residing  at  Appleton.  On 
the  maternal  side  the  subject  of  this  review  is  a representative  of  a pioneer 
Wisconsin  family,  his  grandfather,  August  Lochman,  having  settled  in  this  state 
in  early  times.  He  was  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war,  having  fought  in  that  conflict 
as  a member  of  the  Union  army. 

Dr.  Beier  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  parochial  and  public  schools 
of  Appleton  and  afterward  entered  the  Wisconsin  College  of  Physicians  and 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


9 


Surgeons  at  Milwaukee,  from  which  he  received  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  May, 
1907.  He  afterward  practiced  his  profession  in  Marinette,  this  state,  for  a short 
time  and  then  on  the  17th  of  March,  1908,  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  became 
connected  with  the  State  Home  for  the  Feeble-Minded  as  assistant  superin- 
tendent. This  position  he  has  since  occupied  and,  being  an  able  and  well  trained 
physician  and  surgeon,  has  proved  himself  eminently  well  qualified  for  its  diffi- 
cult duties. 

At  Kaukauna,  Wisconsin,  on  the  3d  of  January.  1910,  Dr.  Beier  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Willkom,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Nicholas 
Willkom,  the  former  a retired  farmer  living  in  Boyd,  this  state.  Dr.  and  Mrs. 
Beier  have  one  son,  August  L.,  Jr. 

Dr.  Beier  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  belongs  to  the 
Chippewa  County  and  Wisconsin  State  Medical  Societies,  the  American  Medical 
Association  and  the  National  Association  for  the  Study  of  the  Feeble  Minded, 
thus  keeping  in  touch  with  the  trend  of  modern  thought  in  his  profession  and  the 
most  improved  methods  along  his  line  of  specialization.  He  is  serving  at  pres- 
ent as  secretary  of  the  county  medical  society  and  his  ability  is  widely  recognized 
in  professional  circles.  Dr.  Beier  is  still  a young  man  but  the  fact  that  he  holds 
a position  of  trust  and  responsibility  in  connection  with  a state  institution  is 
sufficient  proof  of  his  ability  and  his  future  advancement  is  assured. 


C.  L.  CHRISTIANSON. 

Well  known  in  Bloomer  as  one  of  the  enterprising  business  men  and  reliable 
officials  is  C.  L.  Christianson,  who  is  filling  the  office  of  postmaster,  in  which 
connection  he  is  making  a creditable  record  through  the  prompt  and  faithful 
manner  in  which  he  discharges  his  duties.  He  was  born  in  Norway,  February 
27,  1868,  and  is  a son  of  Andrew  Christianson,  who  came  to  the  United  States 
in  1870.  Making  his  way  into  the  interior  of  the  country,  he  established  the 
family  home  in  Houston  county,  Minnesota,  where  he  remained  until  March 
of  the  following  year.  He  then  brought  the  family  to  Chippewa  county,  within 
the  borders  of  which  he  has  since  resided,  devoting  his  time  and  energies  to 
general  agricultural  pursuits.  He  has  now  reached  the  age  of  seventy-eight 
years,  while  his  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Otellia  Larson,  is  seventy- 
two  years  of  age.  Mr.  Christianson  has  ever  been  reckoned  as  an  energetic, 
wide-awake  and  progressive  farmer  and  the  success  which  he  achieved  as  the 
years  went  by  now  enables  him  to  live  retired,  possessing  a competence  suffi- 
cient for  all  of  his  needs  throughout  his  remaining  days.  Unto  Air.  and  Mrs. 
Christianson  were  born  four  children,  of  whom  two  are  living,  the  surviving 
daughter  being  Mrs.  Samuel  Nelson,  who  occupies  the  old  home  farm  two  and 
a half  miles  south  of  Bloomer.  Two  of  the  children  died  in  early  life. 

C.  L.  Christianson  was  a little  lad  of  but  three  summers  when  brought  by 
his  parents  to  Chippewa  county.  He  is  largely  indebted  to  its  public  school  sys- 
tem for  the  educational  opportunities  which  he  enjoyed  and  he  also  spent  two 
years  in  Gale  College.  After  leaving  school  he  became  connected  with  the  firm 
of  Rasmus  & Christianson  in  the  grain  and  produce  business  and  was  thus  en- 


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PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


gaged  until  1905,  after  which  he  traveled  on  the  road  for  several  years.  Accept- 
ing the  position  of  manager  of  the  Bloomer  Produce  Company,  he  acted  in  that 
capacity  until  appointed  by  President  Taft  to  the  position  of  postmaster  of 
Bloomer,  since  which  time  he  has  devoted  his  energies  to  the  careful  conduct 
of  the  affairs  of  the  office. 

In  1890  Mr.  Christianson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Hannah  Reiguam, 
whose  father  was  a farmer  of  Chippewa  county.  Unto  this  marriage  have  been 
born  five  daughters:  Louise,  Abbie  and  Oveila,  all  of  whom  are  graduates  of 
the  Bloomer  high  school;  and  Lillian  and  Alice,  who  are  attending  school. 

In  politics  Mr.  Christianson  is  a republican  and  has  been  active  in  the  work 
of  the  party.  He  served  on  the  board  of  trustees  at  Bloomer  for  several  years 
and  is  interested  in  the  welfare  and  progress  of  his  community.  He  has  busi- 
ness interests  aside  from  the  office,  being  secretary  of  the  telephone  company, 
and  his  religious  activities  are  with  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church,  of  which 
he  is  a faithful  member.  Many  substantial  qualities  and  sterling  characteristics 
have  won  for  him  high  regard  and  the  warm  friendship  of  the  majority  of  those 
with  whom  he  has  come  in  contact. 


MRS.  LUCY  PHILLIPS. 

Mrs.  Lucy  Phillips  owns  a fine  farm  of  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  in  Lafay- 
ette township  and  has  operated  this  property  since  her  husband’s  death  in  1901, 
proving  capable  in  its  management  and  meeting  with  a gratifying  degree  of  suc- 
cess. She  was  born  in  Ponts-martel,  Switzerland,  December  7,  1847,  and  is  a 
daughter  of  Frederick  and  Adele  Jacob,  the  former  of  whom  came  to  America 
in  1861  and  settled  first  in  Pleasant  Valley,  Eau  Claire  county,  where  he  was 
one  of  the  pioneers.  He  died  in  1868  and  was  survived  by  his  wife,  who  lived 
until  1882.  Both  are  buried  in  Pleasant  Valley. 

Mrs.  Phillips  acquired  her  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire 
county  and  after  laying  aside  her  text-books  remained  at  home  until  her  mar- 
riage, which  occurred  October  10.  1869.  Her  husband  was  a native  of  France, 
born  in  Dieuze,  Lorraine,  on  July  13,  1835,  and  came  to  America  in  1854.  He 
first  made  his  home  in  New  Orleans,  working  on  the  Mississippi  river  boats,  but 
in  1855  left  the  south  for  St.  Louis,  Missouri,  where  he  engaged  in  the  lumber 
business  until  1857.  He  then  came  to  Chippewa  county  as  one  of  its  pioneers, 
taking  up  his  residence  here  when  the  section  was  still  a wilderness  and  Indians 
were  numerous  on  the  prairies.  Upon  his  arrival  here  he  purchased  a farm, 
upon  which  Mrs.  Phillips  now  lives,  and  which  through  his  own  efforts  he  cleared 
and  put  under  cultivation.  His  property  consisted  of  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres,  which  he  gradually  brought  under  the  plow,  his  annual  harvests  bringing 
him  a substantial  fortune.  In  February,  1865,  however,  he  interrupted  his  labors 
on  the  farm  and  enlisted  in  Company  L,  First  Wisconsin  Cavavlry,  for  service 
in  the  Civil  war.  He  was  honorably  discharged  in  July  of  the  same  year.  Mr. 
Phillips  was  very  popular  in  Lafayette  township,  where  he  lived  for  so  many 
years,  and  was  respected  and  esteemed  by  every  one  as  a reliable,  upright  and 
farsighted  man  of  considerable  business  ability.  He  was  a member  of  the  Cath- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


11 


olic  church,  and  along  fraternal  lines,  of  the  Grand  Army  of  the  Republic, 
in  which  connection  he  renewed  war  memories  with  his  comrades  of  old.  In 
politics  he  was  a republican,  upholding  the  measures  and  candidates  of  the  party, 
although  he  never  actively  entered  public  life.  His  death,  which  occurred  No- 
vember 22,  1901,  when  he  was  sixty-five  years  of  age,  removed  from  Wisconsin 
one  of  its  most  representative  and  valued  citizens. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Phillips  became  the  parents  of  four  children : Laura,  the  wife 
of  Elmer  Cressy,  a farmer  near  Chippewa  Falls ; Edward,  who  has  agricultural 
interests  in  this  locality ; Emma,  who  married  Victor  Michaud,  also  engaged 
in  farming  in  Chippewa  county ; and  Delia,  who  resides  at  home.  Since  the  death 
of  her  husband,  Mrs.  Phillips  has  continued  in  the  operation  of  the  farm  and 
has  shown  decided  business  ability  in  its  management.  She  and  her  family  are 
devout  members  of  the  Holy  Ghost  Catholic  church  of  Chippewa  Falls.  She  is 
widely  and  favorably  known  here,  her  excellent  qualities  of  mind  and  character 
having  brought  to  her  many  friends. 


WILLIAM  F.  NAGLE. 

William  F.  Nagle,  proprietor  of  a cafe  and  restaurant  at  Cadott,  is  one  of 
the  pioneer  settlers  of  Chippewa  county.  He  has  witnessed  the  greater  part  of 
the  growth  and  development  of  this  section  of  the  state.  He  was  born,  April 
2,  1849,111  Germany,  in  which  country  his  ancestors  had  lived  for  several  genera- 
tions. His  father,  Fred  Nagle,  born  in  1821,  was  a laborer  throughout  his 

entire  life.  He  married  Christina  Maykower,  who  was  born  in  Germany  in 

1826.  They  continued  to  reside  in  the  fatherland  until  1855,  and  then  sailed 
with  her  family  to  America,  settling  first  in  New  York.  The  mother  died  in 
1899  and  the  father,  after  surviving  her  for  ten  years,  passed  away  in  1909.  In 
their  family  were  eight  children:  William,  Fredericka,  Minnie,  May,  Charles, 
Louisa,  Fred  and  Carrie. 

William  F.  Nagle  was  a little  lad  of  but  six  years  when  the  family  came  to 
the  United  States.  He  attended  public  school  in  New  York  until  he  reached 
the  age  of  fourteen  and  then  went  upon  lake  vessels  in  the  capacity  of  cook, 
spending  three  summers  in  that  way.  He  subsequently  learned  the  carpenter’s 
trade,  which  he  followed  until  1870.  That  year  witnessed  his  arrival  in  Wis- 
consin and  after  spending  two  years  in  La  Crosse,  he  went  upon  a farm  and  for 

five  years  engaged  in  farming  and  threshing  in  the  employ  of  others.  He  next 
bought  eighty  acres  of  land  which  he  cultivated  for  four  years  and  then  sold. 
Coming  to  Chippewa  county,  he  was  employed  as  a cook  in  the  lumber  camp 
for  twenty  winters.  In  1894  he  took  up  his  abode  in  Cadott.  Here  in  1897 
he  established  a cafe  and  restaurant  and  has  been  very  successful  in  its  conduct. 

Mr.  Nagle  married  Miss  Lasora  Jackson,  a daughter  of  Eliza  and  Almira 
(Saddlerger)  Jackson  of  Eau  Claire.  The  wedding  was  celebrated  in  the  fam- 
ily home  in  Draymin  township  December  2,  1877,  an<3  unto  them  have  been  born 
seven  children : Lottie,  the  wife  of  Martin  Nelson,  an  undertaker  of  Eau  Claire; 
Flora,  the  wife  of  Floyd  Saddlemyer,  a farmer,  by  whom  she  has  two  chil- 


12 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


dren ; Nellie,  the  wife  of  Clinton  Saddlemyer,  and  the  mother  of  three  children; 
Mary;  Merna  ; William  and  George. 

Mr.  Nagle  holds  membership  with  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  with  the  Order 
of  Owls  and  is  popular  with  his  brethren  of  those  fraternities.  For  six  years 
he  has  served  on  the  school  board  and  the  cause  of  education  finds  in  him  a warm 
friend.  For  four  years  he  has  filled  the  office  of  supervisor  and  has  made  a 
good  record  in  that  connection.  His  political  support  is  given  to  the  republican 
party.  His  work  has  brought  him  into  close  connection  with  the  development 
of  the  county  along  many  lines  and  he  is  highly  respected  in  Cadott  where  he  now 
makes  his  home. 


LORENZO  M.  NEWMAN. 


Lorenzo  M.  Newman,  holding  a position  of  distinctive  precedence  in  financial 
circles  of  Chippewa  Falls  as  vice  president  of  the  First  National  Bank  and  in 
business  circles  as  president  of  the  Handmade  Shoe  Company,  was  born  in  Lanes- 
boro,  Pennsylvania,  July  8,  1851,  and  is  a son  of  Martin  and  Melissa  A.  (Nor- 
ton) Newman.  The  father  began  his  active  life  as  an  inventor  and  for  a num- 
ber of  years  operated  a factory  and  machine  shop,  wherein  he  manufactured  his 
own  devices.  However,  the  years  1872  and  1873  proved  very  disastrous  to  his 
business  and  he  disposed  of  his  concern,  turning  his  attention  to  the  conduct  of 
a drug  store.  This  he  managed  until  1879  and  then  came  to  Chippewa  Falls, 
where  he  established  a book  and  stationery  store,  of  which  he  was  the  proprietor 
for  many  years.  He  died  in  1902,  at  the  age  of  seventy-nine,  and  was  survived 
by  his  wife  until  1908,  her  death  occurring  when  she  was  eighty-two  years  of 
age.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery,  this  state. 

Lorenzo  M.  Newman  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Unadilla, 
New  York,  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  He  spent  some  time 
thereafter  with  his  father  in  the  machine  shop  and  foundry  and  then  turned  his 
attention  to  another  field,  securing  a position  as  clerk  in  a private  bank  in  Sus- 
quehanna, Pennsylvania,  beginning  thus  a career  in  the  banking  field  which  has 
brought  him  constantly  increasing  success  and  distinction.  After  a short  period 
in  his  first  position  he  went  to  Binghamton,  New  York,  and  there  became  identi- 
fied with  the  City  National  Bank  as  bookkeeper,  an  office  which  he  held  until 
he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1876.  Here  he  entered  the  First  National  Bank 
as  cashier  and  this  position  he  held  until  the  1st  of  January, '1913,  when  he  was 
made  vice  president.  In  this  office  he  has  demonstrated  his  excellent  organiz- 
ing and  executive  ability  and  his  power  as  a financier  and  he  has  always  been  a 
helpful  factor  in  the  development  of  a concern  which  is  now  one  of  the  strong  and 
reliable  banks  of  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  Newman  organized  the  Handmade 
Shoe  Company  in  1902  and  was  its  vice  president  until  January  1,  1913,  at  which 
time,  upon  resigning  his  position  as  cashier  of  the  First  National  Bank,  he  as- 
sumed its  management  as  president.  He  has  other  important  business  connec- 
tions, being  a director  in  the  Bank  of  Bloomer,  Wisconsin,  and  treasurer  of  the 
Chippewa  Falls  Canning  Company.  His  ability  has  carried  him  forward  into 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


13 


important  relations  with  the  general  business  life  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  he  is 
numbered  among  the  most  progressive  and  representative  men  of  this  city. 

Although  Mr.  Newman  is  an  able  financier  and  a farsighted  business  man, 
his  interests  have  extended  to  many  other  fields,  his  activities  being  closely  con- 
nected with  the  development  and  growth  of  the  city.  He  was  the  organizer  of 
the  Progressive  League,  which  has  for  its  object  the  promotion  of  the  city’s 
interests  along  all  lines  and  more  particularly  the  securing  of  new  manufacturing 
industries.  Mr.  Newman  served  as  first  president  of  this  organization,  the  initial 
triumph  of  which  was  the  securing  of  the  beet  sugar  factory,  which  is  today 
one  of  the  most  important  industrial  concerns  in  this  part  of  the  county.  Since 
that  time  many  other  manufacturing  and  commercial  enterprises  have  been 
brought  to  the  city  and  the  league  is  still  one  of  the  most  potent  forces  in  munic- 
ipal development.  Mr.  Newman  is  still  active  in  the  work  of  the  institution  and, 
indeed,  in  the  promotion  of  all  measures  and  movements  for  the  city’s  welfare. 
He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  order  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs,  serving  at  the  present  time  as  a member  of  the  board  of  educa- 
tion. He  has  met  with  great  and  well  deserved  individual  success  and  stands 
today  among  the  men  of  marked  ability  and  substantial  worth  in  the  community. 


GUST  HAGEN. 

Energy  and  perseverance  have  been  the  basis  of  the  success  which  Gust  Hagen 
has  attained  during  the  twenty-four  years  of  his  connection  with  agricultural 
interests  of  Chippewa  county.  In  that  time  he  has  developed  a fine  farm  from 
a tract  of  wild  brush  land,  owning  today  two  hundred  and  thirty  acres  on  sec- 
tion 24,  Lafayette  township.  He  was  born  near  Eker,  Norway,  April  29,  1855, 
and  is  a son  of  Andreas  Larson  and  Karina  Hagen,  natives  of  that  locality.  The 
father  engaged  in  farming  for  a number  of  years,  dying  in  January,  1903,  at  the 
age  of  eighty-four.  He  had  survived  his  wife  since  1871,  her  death  having  oc- 
curred when  she  was  thirty-one  years  of  age.  Both  are  buried  in  Conrad  Werke, 
near  Aker. 

Gust  Hagen  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  coun- 
try, laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  worked  as  a 
farm  laborer  until  1881,  when  he  emigrated  to  America,  settling  in  Chippewa 
county.  After  his  arrival  he  worked  in  the  sawmills  at  Chippewa  Falls  for  about 
eight  years  and  then  purchased  two  hundred  and  thirty  acres  on  section  24, 
Lafayette  township.  He  found  this  covered  with  a dense  growth  of  timber  and 
was  obliged  to  fell  the  trees  and  grub  up  the  stumps  before  beginning  the  work 
of  development.  He  has  now  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  under  cultivation 
including  nine  acres  in  tobacco,  and  his  farm  is  one  of  the  finest  and  best  im- 
proved in  this  section  of  the  state.  Mr.  Hagen  engages  in  mixed  farming  and 
is  also  interested  in  stock-raising,  keeping  cattle,  horses  and  other  stock. 

At  Skenger,  Norway,  on  the  10th  of  June,  1877,  Mr.  Hagen  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Inger  Johnson,  a daughter  of  Johan  and  Christina  Erickson, 
the  former  of  whom  met  death  by  drowning  and  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill 
cemetery  at  Chippewa  Falls.  His  wife  survived  him  seventeen  years,  dying 


14 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  1899,  and  she  is  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hagen  have 
six  children:  Oscar  C.  and  John,  who  are  assisting  their  father;  George,  a resi- 
dent of  Eau  Claire;  Edith,  the  wife  of  Martin  Hagen,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Nor- 
man, a resident  of  the  same  city;  and  Harold,  who  is  attending  district  school. 

Mr.  Hagen  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  donated  the 
ground  upon  which  the  church  edifice  stands.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs  and  is  serving  at  present  in  an  able  and  efficient  way  as  road  commis- 
sioner. His  life  has  been  such  as  to  merit  the  respect  of  his  fellowmen  and  by 
his  honesty,  uprightness  and  industry  he  has  contributed  much  toward  the  up- 
building of  the  community  of  which  he  is  a representative  citizen. 


W.  E.  KITCH. 

W.  E.  Kitch,  cashier  of  the  Peoples  State  Bank  of  Bloomer,  has  ever  been 
actuated  by  the  spirit  of  ambition  and  enterprise  in  all  that  he  has  undertaken, 
and  thus  he  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward  until  he  now  occupies  a credit- 
able place  in  financial  circles  and  among  the  business  men  of  his  city.  He  was  born 
in  Mercer  county,  Pennsylvania,  in  1862,  a son  of  Joseph  Kitch,  also  a native  of 
the  Keystone  state.  The  father,  who  was  a tradesman,  died  in  Pennsylvania 
in  early  manhood,  and  his  wife,  who  in  her  maidenhood  was  Elizabeth  McClain, 
also  passed  away  in  Pennsylvania. 

W.  E.  Kitch,  who  was  one  of  a family  of  two  children,  was  educated  in  the 
schools  of  Ohio  and  Wisconsin,  and  after  completing  his  course,  engaged  in 
teaching  in  the  country  schools.  He  also  took  up  the  occupation  of  farming, 
which  he  followed  for  several  years  in  Chippewa  county,  and  in  1899  he  became 
connected  with  the  banking  business,  making  his  initial  step  as  bookkeeper  for 
Henry  Marshall,  proprietor  of  a private  bank.  When  the  company  bought  out 
the  Marshall  bank,  Mr.  Kitch  was  retained  as  bookkeeper  and  so  remained 
until  the  organization  of  the  Peoples  State  Bank,  in  January,  1912,  when  he  be- 
came cashier  of  the  new  institution,  of  which  F.  IT.  Cutting  is  the  president,  and 
Charles  Albrecht,  vice  president.  Tn  addition  to  these  gentlemen,  the  list  of  di- 
rectors contains  the  names  of  C.  F.  Althans,  C.  Hansen,  Dr.  IT.  M.  Trankle,  A. 
J.  Martin  and  H.  P.  Werner,  all  of  Bloomer.  The  bank  is  capitalized  for  ten 
thousand  dollars  and  has  a surplus  of  one  thousand  five  hundred  dollars.  A new 
bank  building  is  being  erected,  which  will  be  a part  of  the  finest  office  building  in  the 
town  and  will  be  thoroughly  equipped  for  the  conduct  of  a general  banking  busi- 
ness, with  fire-proof  appliances  to  safeguard  the  interests  of  depositors,  as  well 
as  of  the  stockholders.  Mr.  Kitch  is  also  connected  with  the  telephone  com- 
pany and  on  its  organization  became  its  treasurer,  in  which  capacity  he  served 
for  three  years.  He  is  resourceful,  energetic  and  alert  and  in  carrying  forward 
to  successful  completion  whatever  he  undertakes,  contributes  to  the  business 
activity  and  prosperity  of  the  community,  as  well  as  to  his  own  success. 

Mr.  Kitch  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Elizabeth  A.  Shipman,  who  was 
born  in  the  town  of  Bloomer,  and  is  a daughter  of  Dewayne  and  Llenrietta  Ship- 
man,  the  former  deceased.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kitch  have  three  children,  Ethel,  Glen 
and  Norma,  all  in  school.  The  family  hold  membership  in  the  First  Unitarian 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


15 


church  of  Duluth,  and  Mr.  Kitch  belongs  also  to  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows,  with  which  he  has  been  identified  for  twenty-three  years.  In  politics  he 
is  an  independent  voter.  He  served  for  two  terms  as  a member  of  the  village 
council,  was  president  of  the  board  for  one  term  and  for  two  terms  was  treasurer 
of  the  village.  He  votes  as  his  judgment  dictates,  regardless  of  party  affiliation, 
and  his  public  spirit  is  manifest  in  his  active  and  hearty  cooperation  in  many 
movements  for  the  general  good. 


P.  L.  LEAHY. 

P.  L.  Leahy,  well  known  in  educational  circles  of  Chippewa  Falls  as  president 
and  owner  of  the  Chippewa  Valley  Business  College,  was  born  in  Green  Lake 
county,  Wisconsin,  in  1873,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Margaret  Leahy,  the  lat- 
ter of  whom  died  in  1898  and  is  buried  in  Kingston.  Her  husband  survives  her 
and  makes  his  home  in  Marquette,  Green  Lake  county. 

P.  L.  Leahy  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Green  Lake 
county  and  in  Ripon  Academy  and  Ripon  College  in  Fond  du  Lac  county.  After 
discontinuing  his  studies  at  the  age  of  twenty-four  years  he  turned  his  attention 
to  teaching  and  since  that  time  has  been  continuously  connected  with  educational 
interests.  He  spent  seven  years  teaching  in  high  schools  in  Green  Lake,  Ripon 
and  La  Crosse  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  accepting  the 
position  as  president  of  the  Chippewa  Valley  Business  College.  Three  years  later 
he  became  the  sole  owner  of  the  college.  He  has  proved  very  capable  in  the  dis- 
charge of  his  duties  and  the  institution  has  had  a rapid  growth  under  his  able 
management,  its  affairs  being  always  administered  in  a farsighted  and  able  way. 

Mr.  Leahy  married,  at  Ripon,  Wisconsin,  in  1898,  Miss  Florence  E.  ITocken- 
hull,  daughter  of  John  and  Magdalene  (Just)  Hockenhull,  both  of  whom  have 
passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Ripon.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Leahy  have  two  children, 
Lester  and  Harold.  Mr.  Leahy  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  is 
pastor  of  the  church  at  Cornell.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the 
Beavers  Lodge.  He  is  a man  of  exemplary  character  and  his  integrity,  industry 
and  ability  have  gained  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  in  any  way 
associated  with  him. 


EDWARD  NELSON. 

Edward  Nelson  is  the  owner  of  a good  farm  on  sections  12,  13  and  14,  Cleve- 
land township.  He  is  a self-made  man  and  he  has  been  both  the  architect  and 
builder  of  his  own  fortunes.  A native  of  Norway,  his  birth  occurred  about  five 
miles  north  of  Christiania,  on  the  23d  of  November,  1856,  his  parents  being  Nels 
and  Elizabeth  (Paulson)  Erickson.  The  father  died  in  Norway  and  later  the 
mother  became  the  wife  of  Ole  Thompson.  They  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the 
United  States  and  traveled  overland  to  the  Mississippi  valley,  making  a settle- 
ment at  Black  River  Falls,  Wisconsin.  After  some  time  they  came  to  Chip- 


16 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


pewa  county,  where  Mr.  Thompson  passed  away,  his  remains  being  interred  at 
Black  River  Falls.  The  mother  died  and  was  buried  in  Bloomer. 

Edward  Nelson  pursued  a common-school  education  and  early  learned  the 
lesson  that  industry  and  perseverance  are  the  most  substantial  factors  in  success. 
Reared  in  this  state,  he  worked  in  the  woods  at  lumbering  and  logging  on  the 
Black  river,  on  the  Flambeau  and  on  the  Chippewa  river.  For  ten  years  he  was 
employed  by  a Mr.  Babb,  for  whom  he  worked  as  manager  of  his  present  farm. 
He  carefully  directed  its  cultivation  and  improvement  and  eventually  purchased 
the  property,  which  is  situated  on  sections  12,  13  and  14,  Cleveland  township. 
To  the  place  he  has  added  many  modern  accessories  and  equipments,  having 
now  the  largest  barn  in  the  township.  He  owns  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
on  sections  13  and  14  and  a tract  of  similar  size  on  section  12,  and  is  bringing 
his  fields  to  a high  state  of  cultivation,  his  modern,  progressive  methods  result- 
ing in  the  raising  of  excellent  crops. 

On  April  9,  1889,  Mr.  Nelson  was  married  in  Chippewa  county  to  Miss  Car- 
rie Wierson,  who  was  born  in  Vernon  county,  Wisconsin,  and  is  a daughter 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thomas  Wierson.  Her  father  is  deceased  but  his  widow  re- 
sides in  Dunn  county,  South  Dakota.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Nelson  have  become  the 
parents  of  eight  children,  Lillian,  William,  Elmer,  Albert,  Irene,  Walter,  Edwin 
and  Grace,  all  of  whom  are  yet  under  the  parental  roof.  The  religious  faith  of 
the  family  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  Mr.  Nelson’s  political  belief  is  that 
of  the  republican  party.  He  has  served  as  township  treasurer  but  otherwise 
has  not  been  active  in  seeking  or  holding  political  office.  He  prefers  to  concen- 
trate his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs  and  is  a successful  farmer  who  has 
recognized  and  improved  his  opportunities,  working  his  way  steadily  upward 
by  honorable  methods. 


JOHN  J.  DIETZLER. 

John  J.  Dietzler,  of  the  firm  of  Dietzler  & Sons,  proprietors  of  a heading  and 
planing  mill  in  Cadott,  was  born  in  De  Pere,  Wisconsin,  April  15,  1879.  He  is 
a son  of  Peter  and  Cornelia  ( Artz ) Dietzler,  the  former  born  in  Calumet  county, 
this  state,  in  1846,  and  the  latter  in  Brown  county  in  1851.  Peter  Dietzler  is  a 
well  known  business  man  of  Cadott  and  head  of  the  firm  of  Dietzler  & Sons,, 
millwrights  and  mill  owners.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  five  chil- 
dren, Stephen,  John  J.,  Charles,  Mathilda  and  Benjamin. 

John  J.  Dietzler  attended  public  school  in  Cadott  until  he  was  eighteen  years 
of  age  and  then  engaged  in  teaching  for  two  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he 
became  connected  with  the  firm  of  Dietzler  & Sons  and  has  since  been  active  in 
the  operation  of  the  heading  and  planing  mill  business  which  this  company  con- 
trols. He  has  proved  himself  a capable,  reliable  and  farsighted  business  man 
and  his  work  has  been  a helpful  factor  in  promoting  the  advancement  of  the  enter- 
prise with  which  he  is  connected. 

At  Boyd,  Wisconsin,  November  20,  1906,  Mr.  Dietzler  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Ida  Toutant,  a daughter  of  Derrick  Leo  and  Caddie  (Grampher) 
Toutant.  Derrick  L.  Toutant  was  the  proprietor  of  Pike  Lake,  a well  known 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


17 


summer  resort  in  this  locality.  He  homesteaded  a farm  there  over  thirty-five 
years  ago  and,  recognizing  a rare  business  opportunity,  transformed  his  land 
and  the  lake  upon  it  into  a retreat  for  summer  visitors.  He  was  very  success- 
ful in  the  conduct  of  this  enterprise  which  he  sold  in  1910.  Moving  to  Cadott, 
he  there  lived  retired  until  his  death  in  1912,  when  he  was  seventy-three  years 
of  age.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  at  Cadott,  being  now  sixty- 
six  years  of  age.  In  their  family  were  ten  children:  Mary;  Peter;  Emil;  Rosie, 
who  has  passed  away ; Alice ; Anna ; Adolph,  also  deceased ; Ida ; Laura ; and 
one  who  died  in  infancy.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Dietzler  have  become  the  parents  of  a 
daughter,  Oretta. 

Mr.  Dietzler  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America 
and  the  Equitable  Fraternal  Union.  He  is  a member  of  St.  Rosa  of  Lima 
Roman  Catholic  church  of  Cadott.  He  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs 
and  served  as  police  justice  for  four  years  and  as  justice  of  the  peace  for  two  years 
and  for  two  terms  as  village  clerk,  proving  himself  a capable  and  farsighted 
public  official.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Cadott  and 
owns  a comfortable  and  attractive  residence  in  the  city.  He  is  a man  of  energy, 
resource  and  ability  and  his  continued  advancement  is  therefore  assured. 


CARL  AMUNDSON. 


Carl  Amundson  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  since  1866  and  during  that 
time  has  made  important  contributions  to  its  agricultural  progress,  developing 
from  the  wilderness  two  productive  and  valuable  farms.  He  is  today  the  owner 
of  eighty  acres  on  section  23,  Lafayette  township,  and  is  recognized  as  an  able 
agriculturist  and  a representative  citizen.  He  was  born  in  Eker,  Norway,  Janu- 
ary 13,  1847,  and  is  a son  of  Amun  and  Carolina  Amundson,  natives  of  that  coun- 
try, who  came  to  America  in  1866.  They  took  up  a homestead  claim  in  Bloomer 
township,  this  county,  when  the  land  was  an  unbroken  prairie  and  here  the  father 
carried  on  agricultural  pursuits  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1887.  His 
wife  survived  him  until  1891  and  is  buried  in  Polk  county. 

Carl  Amundson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway,  lay- 
ing aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  with 
the  work  of  the  farm  until  1866,  when  he  accompanied  his  parents  to  America, 
settling  in  Chippewa  county.  For  some  time  thereafter  he  worked  in  the  lum- 
ber woods  during  the  winter,  spending  his  summers  at  log  driving.  He  after- 
ward moved  to  Duncan’s  Creek  and  from  there  to  Rumseys  Mill,  where  he  spent 
one  summer.  In  1873  he  took  up  a homestead  claim  and  brought  it  to  a high 
state  of  cultivation,  remaining  upon  it  for  thirteen  years.  He  then  purchased  his 
present  property  which  he  cleared  of  timber  and  brush  before  beginning  the  work 
of  cultivation.  By  hard  work  and  untiring  industry,  he  gradually  transformed 
this  property  into  a profitable  farm  and  he  has  now  the  entire  tract  under  cultiva- 
tion, twelve  acres  being  planted  in  tobacco.  The  place  has  been  provided  with 
a comfortable  residence,  a well,  and  substantial  outbuildings  which  Mr.  Amund- 
son erected,  and  it  is  today  a model  property. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  Bloomer,  on  August  27,  1872,  Mr.  Amundson  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Andrena  Amundson,  a daughter  of  Amun  Erickson,  the  former  an  early 
settler  in  Minnesota.  He  and  his  wife  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  near 
Ford  Stone,  Polk  county,  Minnesota.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Amundson  became  the  par- 
ents of  seventeen  children,  of  whom  the  following  survive : Emily,  the  wife  of 
Charles  Wilson,  a shingle  manufacturer  of  Drummond  ; Albert,  who  is  assisting  his 
father ; Clara  who  married  A.  Anderson  ; Hans,  at  home ; Anna,  the  wife  of  Oliver 
Anderson;  Borger,  at  home;  Martha,  also  at  home;  Bennetta,  the  wife  of  Harry 
Mills,  a farmer  of  Wheaton  township;  Alvin,  assisting  his  father;  and  Selma, 
at  home. 

Mr.  Amundson  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  a 
member  of  the  Lutheran  church.  He  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  for  forty- 
seven  years  and  is  one  of  its  well  known  citizens  whose  business  enterprise, 
integrity  and  public  spirit  have  gained  for  him  the  high  esteem  of  those  who  know 
him. 


FRANK  O.  BIBLE. 

Frank  O.  Bible,  who  since  1909  has  been  serving  in  a capable  and  efficient 
manner  as  superintendent  of  the  Chippewa  County  Insane  Asylum  and  Poor 
Farm,  was  born  in  Sauk  county,  this  state,  March  13,  1869,  and  is  a son  of 
George  W.  and  Esther  M.  (Carr)  Bible.  The  father  settled  in  Sauk  county  in 
pioneer  times  and  engaged  in  farming  there  for  a number  of  years.  He  served 
in  the  Union  army  during  the  Civil  war,  taking  part  in  many  of  the  most 
important  engagements  of  that  conflict.  He  is  now  living  retired  in  Reedsburg, 
Wisconsin,  having  survived  his  wife  since  1895.  She  is  buried  at  Limeridge 
cemetery,  in  Sauk  county. 

Frank  O.  Bible  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his 
native  county  and  afterward  entered  the  University  of  Wisconsin,  graduating 
from  the  agricultural  department.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  became  an 
employe  of  the  Richland  County  Nursery  and  when  he  severed  his  connection 
with  that  institution  entered  the  hardware  business,  in  which  he  continued  for 
flve  years.  Upon  the  expiration  of  that  time  he  became  connected  with  the 
Dunn  County  Insane  Asylum  and  when  he  resigned  this  position  came  to  Chippewa 
Falls,  where  he  secured  a position  as  gardener  and  florist  at  the  Wisconsin 
State  Home  for  the  Feeble  Minded.  He  did  able  work  in  this  capacity  for  ten 
years  and  during  the  last  three  years  of  that  period  held  also  the  office  of 
supervisor  of  animal  husbandry  and  was  in  charge  of  the  agricultural  depart- 
ment. In  1909  he  resigned  all  of  these  offices  and  became  superintendent  of 
the  Chippewa  County  Insane  Asylum  and  Poor  Farm.  He  has  since  discharged 
his  responsible  duties  in  a capable  and  earnest  way,  his  work  winning  the 
approval  of  the  people  of  the  county  as  well  as  those  immediately  connected 
with  the  institution.  Mr.  Bible  has  from  time  to  time  made  judicious  invest- 
ments in  land  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  the  vicinity  and  is  today  an  extensive  realty 
owner,  his  interests  being  careful’ y managed. 


FRANK  0.  BIBLE 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


21 


In  Ironton,  Sauk  county,  on  the  29th  of  November,  1897,  Mr.  Bible  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Rose  Henriett,  a daughter  of  C.  F.  and  Mary  E. 
(Bonhotel)  Henriett,  early  settlers  in  Wisconsin.  The  father  makes  his  home 
in  Chippewa  Falls,  having  survived  his  wife  since  1908.  She  is  buried  in  the 
Forest  Hill  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bible  have  become  the  parents  of  a son, 
Robert  La  Follette. 

Mr.  Bible  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church  and  is  a pro- 
gressive republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  widely  and  favorably  known 
in  Chippewa  Falls  and  has  made  an  excellent  record  in  his  present  office,  having 
gained  a well  deserved  reputation  for  integrity,  loyalty  and  public  spirit. 


CARI.  ANDERSON. 

Carl  Anderson,  a representative  and  successful  agriculturist  of  Chippewa 
county  who  has  resided  here  for  a period  covering  forty-six  years,  is  the  owner 
of  a farm  comprising  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  13,  Cleveland 
township.  His  birth  occurred  in  Norway,  three  miles  east  of  Christiania,  on  the 
26th  of  January,  1849,  his  parents  being  Andrew  and  Helena  Hanson.  In  1862 
the  father  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States,  the  vessel  encountering  a 
storm  and  being  eighteen  weeks  on  the  voyage.  Making  his  way  direct  to  Chip- 
pewa county,  Wisconsin,  he  entered  land  near  Bloomer  and  on  that  farm  spent 
the  remainder  of  his  life,  his  demise  occurring  on  the  13th  of  January,  1882. 
Five  years  after  he  had  come  to  this  country  his  wife  and  children  joined  him 
here.  His  widow,  who  still  survives  and  resides  on  the  home  farm,  is  now  eighty- 
nine  years  of  age. 

Carl  Anderson,  who  was  a youth  of  seventeen  when  he  accompanied  his  mother 
on  her  emigration  to  the  new  world,  well  remembers  the  slow  and  tedious  voyage 
across  the  ocean,  which  consumed  seven  weeks  and  four  days.  He  remained  with 
his  parents  until  twenty-four  years  of  age  and  worked  at  lumbering  and  also  in 
the  mills  for  several  years.  Subsequently  he  purchased  an  unimproved  tract  of 
eighty  acres  near  Bloomer  and  resided  thereon  for  four  years,  when  he  bought 
another  unimproved  tract  of  land  three  miles  east.  Fourteen  years  ago  he  dis- 
posed of  that  property  and  purchased  the  farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
in  Cleveland  township  which  has  been  his  home  to  the  present  time.  The  place 
was  improved  when  it  came  into  his  possession,  and  in  its  operation  he  has  won  a 
gratifying  measure  of  prosperity. 

In  1874,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Anderson  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss 
Martha  Nelson,  who  was  born  in  Norway  on  the  19th  of  September,  1850.  Her 
parents  emigrated  to  the  United  States  and  settled  in  Jackson  county,  Wisconsin. 
Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Anderson  were  born  the  following  children.  Albert  and  Han- 
nah, both  of  whom  are  now  deceased;  Nels,  a resident  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Emil, 
at  home,  who  has  served  in  the  capacity  of  township  supervisor  for  two  years ; 
Martin,  who  is  employed  by  a manufacturing  concern  in  Cornell,  Wisconsin;  and 
Hilda,  at  home. 

In  politics  Mr.  Anderson  is  a stanch  republican,  exercising  his  right  of  fran- 
chise in  support  of  the  men  and  measures  of  that  party.  His  religious  faith  is 

Vol.  II— 2 


22 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


indicated  by  his  membership  in  the  Lutheran  church,  to  which  his  wife  and  chil- 
dren also  belong.  He  is  the  possessor  of  many  good  qualities  that  have  attracted 
friends  and  by  his  straightforward  course  through  life  he  has  gained  and  re- 
tained the  confidence  and  respect  of  those  with  whom  he  is  associated. 


CHARLES  ALBRECHT. 

Throughout  almost  his  entire  life  Charles  Albrecht  of  Bloomer  has  been  a 
resident  of  Wisconsin.  He  is  now  widely  known  as  the  vice  president  of  the 
State  Bank  of  Bloomer  and  also  as  a dealer  in  real-estate.  He  studies  all  the 
requisites  of  success  and  by  honorable  methods  and  unfaltering  purpose  is  work- 
ing his  way  steadily  upward.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1849  and  was  brought 
to  the  United  States  when  about  seven  years  of  age.  His  father,  John  Albrecht, 
made  the  voyage  to  the  new  world  about  1856  and,  at  once  penetrating  into 
the  interior  of  the  country,  settled  first  at  Milwaukee,  where  he  remained  for 
four  years.  At  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  came  to  Chippewa  county, 
where  he  turned  his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits.  He  was  a farmer 
by  occupation,  making  his  home  about  a mile  and  a half  north  of  Bloomer,  where 
he  carefully  tilled  his  fields  and  developed  his  place,  making  it  one  of  the  attract- 
ive farm  properties  of  the  district.  He  died  thereon  when  eighty-two  years  of 
age.  His  first  wife,  the  mother  of  Charles  Albrecht,  had  died  when  they  were 
crossing  the  Atlantic  to  the  new  world,  and  John  Albrecht  had  afterward  married 
again,  his  second  wife  departing  this  life  about  seven  years  prior  to  his  demise. 

Charles  Albrecht  was  educated  in  the  common  schools  and  when  not  busy 
with  his  text-books  assisted  his  father  in  the  work  of  the  fields,  being  thus  em- 
ployed until  he  left  home  and  started  in  business  for  himself  on  a farm  north 
of  Bloomer.  His  previous  practical  experience  well  qualified  him  to  enter  upon 
farm  work  on  his  own  account.  From  time  to  time  he  was  called  to  public  office 
and  has  made  an  excellent  record  in  that  connection.  He  filled  the  position 
of  supervisor  for  six  years,  was  assessor  for  four  years  in  the  town  of  Bloomer 
and  when  but  eighteen  years  of  age  was  made  school  clerk  in  his  district,  thus 
serving  until  five  years  ago.  He  held  the  office  longer  than  any  other  incumbent 
in  a similar  position  in  the  state.  He  also  carried  on  his  farm  at  the  same  time 
until  about  five  years  ago,  when  he  put  aside  agricultural  pursuits  and  removed 
to  Bloomer,  opening  a real-estate  office,  since  which  time  he  has  handled  town 
and  farm  property.  He  owns  two  farms  north  of  the  city,  comprising  one  hundred 
and  eighty  acres  of  land  from  which  he  derives  a substantial  income.  The 
careful  management  of  his  property  interests  and  the  wise  direction  of  his  farm 
work  have  brought  him  a measure  of  prosperity  that  is  substantial  and  gratify- 
ing. Moreover,  he  is  the  vice  president  of  the  State  Bank  of  Bloomer  and  holds 
stock  in  various  other  business  enterprises.  On  coming  to  the  town  he  embarked 
in  the  real-estate  business  and  he  now  deals  largely  in  farm  lands,  having  farm 
property  in  Canada  and  nine  hundred  acres  in  Mississippi. 

Mr.  Albrecht  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Gehreng,  who  was  born  in 
Switzerland,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children : Lena,  who  mar- 
ried Charles  Prichard  and  has  five  children;  William,  who  married  Olga  Krenz 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


23 


and  has  two  children ; Clara,  who  is  the  wife  of  J.  F.  Krenz  and  also  has  two 
children ; Edward  and  Elzie,  both  at  home.  The  family  are  members  of  the 
German  Lutheran  church  and  throughout  his  life  Mr.  Albrecht  has  been  actu- 
ated by  honorable  principles.  He  has  worked  diligently  and  persistently  to  at- 
tain success  and  his  intelligently  directed  labors  have  brought  their  merited 
reward. 


GEORGE  FT  GANNON. 

A farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  17,  Lafayette  township, 
is  the  property  of  George  B.  Gannon,  who  for  almost  one-third  of  a century  has 
been  a resident  of  this  county  and  has  witnessed  much  of  its  development  along 
agricultural  and  other  lines.  He  was  born  at  Schaull,  County  Cork,  Ireland, 
September  15,  1858,  and  is  a son  of  Valentine  and  Eliza  (Brown)  Gannon.  His 
father  was  a police  officer  in  the  Royal  Irish  Constabulary.  Both  he  and  his 
wife  are  deceased,  the  former  being  laid  to  rest  in  a cemetery  at  Schaull  and  the 
latter  at  Donnynook,  Norfolkshire,  England. 

The  schools  of  his  native  country  afforded  George  B.  Gannon  his  educational 
opportunities.  He  continued  his  studies  to  the  age  of  fourteen  years  and  then 
enlisted  in  the  royal  navy.  He  was  one  of  the  body  guards  of  the  Prince  of 
Wales,  later  King  Edward  VII,  on  his  trip  to  India.  His  brother  Francis  was 
also  in  the  service  of  the  government,  holding  a commission  as  officer  in  the 
Royal  Irish  Constabulary.  He  now  lives  retired  on  a pension.  Another  brother, 
Valentine,  was  for  seventeen  years  in  the  direct  service  of  the  late  Queen  Victoria 
on  her  yacht  Victoria  and  Albert.  He  was  a non-commissioned  officer  and  is  now 
retired  with  a pension.  After  becoming  invalided  George  B.  Gannon  crossed  the 
Atlantic  to  America  and  cast  his  lot  with  the  citizens  of  Chippewa  county  in 
1881.  He  was  for  two  years  thereafter  employed  by  the  Eau  Claire  Lumber 
Company.  Subsequently  he  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  on  his  own  account 
for  a number  of  years,  but  eventually  settled  on  a farm  of  eighty  acres  which 
was  only  partly  improved.  There  was  a heavy  growth  of  pine  trees,  but  he 
cleared  the  land  and  brought  it  to  a high  state  of  cultivation,  making  it  one 
of  the  productive  and  valuable  farms  of  Lafayette  township.  As  his  financial 
resources  increased  he  extended  its  boundaries  by  adding  purchases  until  it  now 
comprises  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres.  He  carries  on  mixed  farming  but 
makes  a specialty  of  dairying,  keeping  a number  of  cows  for  that  purpose.  The 
most  thorough  machinery  conditions  characterize  his  dairy  and  by  reason  of  the 
excellence  of  its  product  he  derives  a good  income  from  his  dairy  business.  He 
is  a stockholder  in  the  Lafayette  Creamery  Company,  of  which  he  has  been  vice 
president  for  eight  years,  and  is  also  interested  in  the  Melville  Settlement  Tele- 
phone Company.  He  has  remodeled  his  farm  residence,  has  built  a barn  and 
granary  and  made  other  substantial  improvements  upon  his  land,  so  that  his  farm 
is  today  equipped  with  all  modern  conveniences  and  accessories. 

In  Chippewa  Falls  on  the  29th  of  April,  1894,  Mr.  Gannon  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Connell,  a daughter  of  James  and  Mary  Connell, 
the  former  one  of  the  pioneer  farmers  of  Chippewa  county.  He  died  Tuly  24, 


24 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


1912,  and  lies  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gannon  are  the 
parents  of  three  children;  Anna,  a high-school  pupil;  and  Valentine  E.  and 
George  A.,  who  are  also  attending  school.  Mr.  Gannon  gives  considerable 
credit  to  his  wife  for  the  success  which  he  enjoys,  appreciating  her  capable 
management  of  the  household  affairs  and  her  wise  counsel  in  business  matters. 

In  politics  Mr.  Gannon  is  a republican  and  is  now  serving  as  treasurer  of  the 
town  of  Lafayette.  He  belongs  to  the  Modern  Benevolent  Association  and  to 
the  Presbyterian  church — connections  which  indicate  much  of  the  rules  which 
govern  his  conduct.  His  life  is  honorable  in  its  purposes  and  his  integrity  and 
reliability  in  business  affairs  are  questioned  by  none. 


SAMUEL  SHAFER. 

Samuel  Shafer,  a representative  of  the  bee  industry  in  Lafayette  township, 
has  a large  apiary  on  his  place  on  section  7,  not  far  from  Chippewa  Falls.  He 
is  one  of  the  county’s  pioneer  settlers,  having  made  his  home  within  its  borders 
for  fifty-eight  years.  His  birth  occurred  in  Indiana  county,  Pennsylvania,  Jan- 
uary 22,  1837,  his  parents-  being  Leonard  and  Annie  (Black)  Shafer.  The 
former  was  a farmer  of  Pennsylvania  and  a veteran  of  the  Mexican  war.  Both 
he  and  his  wife  are  now  deceased. 

Samuel  Shafer  is  largely  a self-educated  man.  He  had  little  opportunity 
to  attend  school  and  at  the  age  of  eighteen  years  started  out  on  his  own  account. 
He  was  employed  at  grubbing  stumps,  cutting  wood  and  other  similar  labor, 
but  he  was  ambitious  and  energetic  and,  hoping  to  find  better  opportunity  in  the 
middle  west,  made  his  way  to  Illinois,  where  he  began  husking  corn.  In  August, 
1855,  he  removed  to  Chippewa  county  and  began  work  on  a rotary  in  a sawmill, 
following  that  business  until  1864,  when  he  put  aside  all  personal  considerations 
in  order  to  respond  to  the  country's  call  for  troops,  enlisting  as  a member  of 
Company  F,  Fourth  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry,  with  which  regiment  he 
continued  until  after  the  close  of  the  war. 

When  hostilities  were  over  and  the  country  no  longer  needed  his  aid  Mr. 
Shafer  returned  to  the  north  and  entered  the  employ  of  Pound  & Halbert,  pro- 
prietors of  a sawmill.  He  afterward  began  farming  and  subsequently  entered 
the  employ  of  the  Cadott  gristmill,  which  later  was  destroyed  by  fire.  He  then 
resumed  agricultural  pursuits  and  also  began  raising  bees  for  the  production  of 
honey.  This  is  now  his  principal  source  of  income  and  in  this  connection  he  is 
well  known.  He  has  thoroughly  studied  the  question  of  bee  culture  and  has 
high-grade  bees,  which  he  cares  for  according  to  the  most  modern  and  progressive 
methods. 

Mr.  Shafer  was  married  in  Edson,  Wisconsin,  in  1873,  to  Miss  Catherine 
Huff,  a daughter  of  Henry  LI.  Huff,  formerly  a blacksmith  of  Edson,  but  both 
he  and  his  wife  are  now  deceased.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shafer  have  a son,  William, 
who  follows  farming  in  Lafayette  township. 

In  politics  Mr.  Shafer  is  a republican,  stalwart  and  earnest  in  support  of 
the  party,  with  which  he  was  voted  since  age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of 
franchise.  He  belongs  to  the  Grand  Army  post  and  wears  with  pride  the  little 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


25 


bronze  button  which  bears  mute  testimony  of  his  service  as  a soldier  of  the 
Civil  *war.  He  is  well  known  in  the  county  where  much  of  his  life  has  been 
passed  and  where  his  many  good  qualities  have  won  him  high  regard. 


S.  B.  SIDDONS. 

At  the  venerable  age  of  eighty-two  years  S.  B.  Siddons  is  making  his  home 
upon  a farm  of  two  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Anson  township  which  he  owns. 
He  was  born  in  Toronto,  Canada,  June  6,  1831,  and  is  a son  of  Samuel  and  Mar- 
garet (Hutchinson)  Siddons,  of  early  English  ancestry,  representatives  of  the 
name  arriving  in  the  United  States  in  1725.  The  first  American  ancestor  was 
Benjamin  Siddons,  who  settled  in  York  county,  Pennsylvania,  and  the  town  of 
Siddonsburg  was  named  after  him,  for  he  was  the  first  settler  there.  He  was 
the  father  of  only  one  child,  John,  who  moved  to  Canada.  The  latter  also  was 
the  father  of  one  child,  Samuel,  born  in  Pennsylvania,  who,  however,  lived  in 
Canada  and  became  the  father  of  seven  daughters  and  two  sons,  among  them 
Samuel,  the  father  of  our  subject.  Mr.  Siddons’  father,  grandfather  and  great- 
grandfather were  born  in  Pennsylvania,  the  last  named  during  the  Revolutionary 
war.  The  government  passed  a law  at  that  time  that  all  those  citizens  not  taking 
up  arms  for  England  were  to  be  considered  citizens  of  the  United  States,  and 
this  law  proved  of  importance  to  Mr.  Siddons  of  this  review  in  1879,  when 
he  had  voted  at  an  election  in  Iowa.  The  election  was  contested,  as  he  was 
born  in  Canada,  and  his  vote  was  challenged.  The  case  was  taken  before 
congress  and  congress  held  that  Mr.  Siddons’  vote  was  legal  by  reason  of 
the  fact  above  stated.  Samuel  Siddons,  the  father,  was  a farmer  by  occupa- 
tion and  removed  from  Pennsylvania  to  Ontario  but  returned  to  the  United 
States  in  1869  and  spent  his  remaining  days  on  this  side  of  the  border,  passing 
away  in  1885.  His  wife  preceded  him  to  the  Home  Beyond,  her  death  having 
occurred  in  March,  1873.  and  both  were  laid  to  rest  in  the  cemetery  at  Troy,  Iowa. 

S.  B.  Siddons  attended  school  in  Canada  until  he  reached  the  age  of  twenty 
years.  In  the  meantime  he  assisted  his  father  in  farming  and  the  occupation 
to  which  he  was  reared  he  has  made  his  life  work.  About  the  time  he  attained 
his  majority  he  began  purchasing  and  improving  land,  which  he  cultivated  and 
then  sold.  He  continued  this  operation,  owning  as  many  as  eight  farms  before 
his  removal  to  Troy,  Iowa.  In  that  district  he  again  became  identified  with 
agricultural  pursuits,  carrying  on  general  farming  but  also  specialized  in  raising 
pure-bred  horses.  He  was  for  twenty-nine  years  a resident  of  the  state  before 
coming  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1899.  In  that  year  he  purchased  his  present  farm 
of  two  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  sections  14,  15,  22  and  23,  Anson  township. 
He  also  bought  a one  hundred  acre  tract  which  he  gave  to  his  son,  F.  V.  Sid- 
dons. The  entire  property  at  the  time  of  his  purchase  was  in  poor  condition 
but  it  is  today  in  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  and  his  son  broke  about  one 
hundred  acres  of  land  and  Mr.  Siddons  still  actively  carries  on  farm  work, 
personally  supervising  the  tilling  of  the  soil  and  the  care  of  the  crops.  He  also 
keeps  much  live  stock.  He  has  a well  developed  farm  property,  lacking  in  none 
of  the  modern  accessories.  The  fine  residence  which  is  his  home  was  erected 


26 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


by  him  and  he  has  made  various  other  excellent  improvements  upon  the  farm, 
so  that  the  place  presents  a fine  appearance  and  constitutes  one  of  the  attractive 
features  of  the  landscape. 

Mr.  Siddons  has  been  married  three  times.  In  Toronto,  Canada,  in  1853, 
he  wedded  Miss  Angeline  Lloyd,  who  died  in  1855.  The  following  year,  in  the 
state  of  New  York,  he  wedded  Miss  Hannah  Playtor,  who  passed  away  in  1875, 
when  they  were  living  in  Page  county,  Iowa.  They  were  the  parents  of  five  chil- 
dren. Priscilla  M.  is  the  wife  of  F.  M.  Gore,  a farmer  of  Vernon  county,  Wis- 
consin, and  they  have  three  sons  and  five  daughters : Edwin,  Samuel,  Olive,  Eva, 
Ida,  Lura,  Frank  and  Bertha.  Martha  F.  became  the  wife  of  W.  B.  Campbell, 
a farmer  of  Troy,  Iowa,  and  died  and  was  buried  in  Fairfield,  leaving  her  hus- 
band with  four  children:  Ada,  the  wife  of  Charles  Reckoff  ; Weldon,  who  is 
living  in  Marion,  Iowa;  Minnie,  the  wife  of  G.  W.  Dunshee,  of  New  Sharon, 
Iowa;  and  Matthew,  who  is  attending  Parsons  College  at  Fairfield,  Iowa.  Eliz- 
abeth makes  her  home  with  her  father.  Freeman  V.  is  a prominent  farmer  of 
Chippewa  county  and  has  six  children:  Cleo,  Harold,  Vance,  Lloyd,  Samuel  and 
Mabel.  Laura  is  the  wife  of  Edwin  Shulke,  of  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin, 
and  they  have  three  children:  Verda,  Weldon  and  Edna.  Having  lost  his  second 
wife,  Mr.  Siddons  was  married  in  Troy,  in  1876,  to  Miss  Martha  Akers,  and 
they  had  four  children:  Truman,  who  married  Miss  Mamie  Hakes,  by  whom  he 
has  two  children,  Otto  and  Ruth,  and  who  is  assisting  his  father  in  the  farm 
work ; and  three  who  died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Siddons  is  truly  American  in  thought  and  interests  and  gives  loyal  sup- 
port to  the  republican  party,  believing  its  platform  to  contain  the  best  elements 
of  good  government.  While  living  in  Iowa  he  held  several  local  offices.  For 
many  years  he  was  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he 
belongs  to  the  Methodist  church,  to  the  teachings  of  which  he  has  long  been 
loyal  and  devoted.  His  has  been  an  active  and  useful  life  and  in  the  various 
districts  in  which  he  has  lived  he  has  ever  commanded  and  enjoyed  the  respect 
and  good-will  of  those  with  whom  he  has  been  associated. 


R.  J.  EMERSON. 

It  is  significant  of  the  progressive  spirit  prevailing  in  Chippewa  county  that 
the  most  influential  position  therein  was  won  by  one  of  the  younger  generation, 
as  it  has  been  recognized  here  as  elsewhere  that  it  is  the  young  and  enthusiastic 
man  who  brings  about  reforms  and  deviates  from  the  old  way  more  readily  in 
order  to  embrace  improvements  or  methods  which  lead  by  a shorter  road  to  a 
more  satisfactory  ending.  Among  these  is  R.  J.  Emerson,  clerk  of  the  circuit 
court,  who  since  giving  up  his  grocery  business  has  ably  discharged  his  official 
duties.  A native  of  Chippewa  county,  he  was  born  at  Eagle  Point,  Wisconsin, 
February  18,  1880,  and  is  a son  of  Edward  and  Johanna  (Larson)  Emerson, 
residents  of  Chippewa  Falls.  The  father  also  held  important  public  positions 
such  as  register  of  deeds  and  deputy  sheriff  and  is  prominent  in  the  community 
life  of  the  city. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


27 


R.  J.  Emerson  received  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls,  leaving  school  at 
the  age  of  seventeen,  at  which  time  he  engaged  in  work  in  a sawmill,  remaining 
there  for  about  six  years.  He  then  accepted  a position  in  a grocery  store,  where 
he  continued  for  two  years,  being  enabled  at  at  the  end  of  that  time  to  buy  out 
his  employer.  P'or  six  years  he  continued  the  business  and  was  then  elected 
clerk  of  the  circuit  court.  He  has  since  given  his  entire  attention  to  his  duties 
and  in  the  discharge  of  them  has  earned  the  high  commendation  of  the  general 
public  and  particularly  of  those  who  have  business  transactions  with  the  court. 

In  November,  1904,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Emerson  was  married  to  Miss 
Helen  Field  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  three  children,  Carvel,  Milton 
and  Evelyn,  all  of  whom  are  attending  school.  The  family  reside  at  No.  618 
East  Allen  street  in  a commodious  and  well  appointed  home. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Emerson  is  a republican,  deeply  convinced  of  the 
righteousness  of  the  principles  of  that  party  and  ever  upholding  its  candidates 
and  measures  on  election  day.  He  has  various  fraternal  relations,  being  a mem- 
ber of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  the 
Knights  of  the  Maccabees.  The  religious  faith  of  Mr.  Emerson  is  that  of  the 
Lutheran  denomination  and  he  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church 
here.  Mr.  Emerson  stands  high  in  public  esteem  and  is  popular  with  many  of 
the  citizens  of  Chippewa  Falls,  having  a large  personal  acquaintance.  As  clerk 
of  the  circuit  court  he  has  made  an  enviable  record  and  his  services  find  ready 
appreciation. 


GEORGE  W.  BOIE. 

George  W Boie,  who  for  the  past  six  years  has  held  the  position  of  cashier 
in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Cadott,  of  which  institution  he  is  also  a stock- 
holder and  director,  is  widely  recognized  as  one  of  the  substantial  young  busi- 
ness men  and  highly  respected  citizens  of  his  community.  His  birth  occurred 
in  Thorp,  Clark  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  22d  of  February,  1884,  his  parents 
being  John  and  Helen  (Greve)  Boie,  the  former  born  in  Calumet  county,  this 
state,  in  i860,  and  the  latter  in  Germany  in  1859.  John  Boie,  an  agriculturist 
by  occupation,  now  makes  his  home  at  Thorp,  but  his  wife  is  deceased,  her 
demise  having  occurred  in  1894.  Unto  them  were  born  four  children,  namely: 
Lillian,  Oscar,  Harry  and  George  W. 

The  last  named  supplemented  his  early  education  by  a course  of  study  in 
the  Allen  Business  College  at  Stevens  Point,  which  he  left  at  the  age  of  eighteen 
years  to  enter  the  Citizens  State  Bank  at  Stanley,  in  the  service  of  which  insti- 
tution he  remained  for  ten  months.  On  the  9th  of  October,  1905,  he  came  to 
Cadott  to  accept  the  position  of  bookkeeper  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  there 
and  two  years  later  was  made  cashier,  in  which  capacity  he  has  done  able  service 
to  the  present  time.  He  is  not  only  a popular  official  of  the  institution  but 
also  one  of  its  stockholders  and  directors  and  has  gained  an  enviable  reputation 
as  a successful  and  representative  citizen  of  the  community. 

On  the  24th  of  June,  1908,  at  Cadott,  Mr.  Boie  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Lillian  Greene,  her  parents  being  Albert  and  Tina  Greene,  of  Cadott,  the 


28 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


former  for  many  years  a railroad  carpenter  in  the  service  of  the  Omaha  road. 
Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  one  child,  Helen  E.  The  family  home  is  an  at- 
tractive and  substantial  residence  which  Mr.  Boie  owns. 

His  political  sympathies  are  indicated  by  the  fact  that  he  is  now  serving  as 
secretary  of  the  Cadott  Progressive  League.  His  religious  faith  in  that  of  the 
Lutheran  church,  while  fraternally  he  is  identified  with  the  Knights  of  Pythias, 
the  Beavers  and  the  Equitable  Fraternal  Union.  In  hunting  he  finds  both  rec- 
reation and  pleasure.  His  strong  and  salient  characteristics  are  such  as  endear 
him  to  all  who  come  within  the  close  circle  of  his  friendship  and  wherever  he 
is  known  he  is  respected  and  esteemed. 


PETER  BEAULIEU. 

Peter  Beaulieu,  who  owns  and  operates  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  on  section  12,  Cleveland  township,  has  resided  thereon  continuously  for  the 
past  thirty-five  years  and  is  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  of  the  township.  He  was 
born  in  Canada,  December  16,  1844,  and  his  father  and  paternal  grandfather,  both 
named  Peter,  were  likewise  natives  of  that  country.  When  twenty  years  of  age 
he  crossed  the  border  into  the  United  States,  locating  first  in  New  Hampshire 
and  subsequently  in  Maine,  while  in  1876  he  made  his  way  to  Chicago,  Illinois. 
He  was  afterward  employed  in  a pinery  of  Wisconsin  and  in  1878  homesteaded 
a tract  of  eighty  acres  of  government  land  in  Cleveland  township,  Chippewa 
county,  while  later  he  secured  forty  acres  more  from  the  government.  The  place 
was  densely  covered  with  timber  and  as  the  nearest  neighbor  was  miles  away 
and  no  help  could  be  procured,  Mr.  Beaulieu  alone  undertook  the  arduous 
task  of  clearing  his  land,  chopping  down  the  trees  and  cutting  the  logs.  On 
that  farm  he  has  remained  continuously  since,  and  as  time  passed  on  he  brought 
his  fields  to  a high  state  of  cultivation  and  improvement.  In  the  early  days 
he  cradled  his  grain  and  planted  potatoes  with  a grub  hoe.  He  well  remembers 
the  time  when  the  deer  would  come  up  and  feed  with  his  cattle.  In  those  early 
days  he  was  a great  hunter  and  for  years  supplied  the  table  with  game.  He  still 
has  his  trusty  Winchester,  which  has  been  his  property  since  1876,  and  still  is 
recognized  as  one  of  the  best  shots  in  his  locality.  His  labors  have  been  an 
efifective  element  in  the  agricultural  development  of  this  county  and  he  has  long 
been  numbered  among  the  substantial  and  representative  citizens  here. 

On  April  6,  1879,  ’n  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Beaulieu  was  married  to  Miss 
Rose  Warded,  a native  of  Pennsylvania  and  a daughter  of  Fred  and  Sarah  E. 
(McKinster)  Warded,  the  former  of  German  descent  and  the  latter  of  English- 
Yankee  parentage.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Warded  were  married  in  Pennsylvania  and 
the  former  was  killed  in  the  Civil  war,  sacrificing  his  life  for  the  sake  of  his 
country  when  Mrs.  Beaulieu  was  but  a child.  When  she  was  thirteen  years  of 
age,  the  mother  and  family  came  to  the  west.  Mrs.  Beaulieu,  as  soon  as  old 
enough,  accepted  employment  in  the  family  of  Magnus  Firth  and  later  was  in 
the  household  of  the  Rutledge  family,  these  two  being  among  the  earliest  and 
foremost  families  of  the  county.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Beaulieu  have  been  born 
five  children,  as  follows:  John,  at  home;  Ada,  the  wife  of  Dennis  Irvin;  Junia, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


29 


who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  Alphonse  La  Rose;  and  Vane  and  Ernest, 
both  at  home.  Mrs.  Beaulieu  is  a Methodist  in  religious  faith.  She  is  one  of 
the  typical  pioneer  ladies  of  the  county,  for  she  has  undergone  all  the  hard- 
ships incident  to  life  in  the  early  days  in  this  district.  Although  seventy-five 
years  of  age,  she  is  still  young  in  mind  and  pleasantly  and  interestingly  recounts 
incidents  of  the  long  ago.  Both  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Beaulieu  enjoy  an  extensive 
acquaintance  in  the  community  where  they  have  so  long  resided  and  are  highly 
esteemed  and  respected  by  old  and  young,  high  and  low. 


JOSEPH  JOAS. 

Joseph  Joas  is  well  known  in  financial  and  commercial  circles  of  Chippewa 
Falls  in  connection  with  the  Joas  Investment  Company,  which  he  established  in 
1908  and  which  is  doing  an  extensive  real-estate,  loan  and  insurance  business. 
He  is  a native  of  this  county,  born  in  Tilden,  June  4,  1869,  and  is  a son  of 
Joseph  and  Maria  Joas.  The  father  died  in  1883  and  is  buried  in  Forest  Hill 
cemetery.  He  was  a prominent  farmer  of  Tilden,  where  he  enjoyed  the  respect 
and  esteem  of  a large  circle  of  friends.  The  mother  now  resides  in  Chippewa 
Falls. 

Joseph  Joas  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county, 
which  he  intermittently  attended  until  eighteen  years  of  age.  He  early  began 
to  assist  the  mother  on  the  home  place,  helping  in  the  support  of  his  brothers 
and  sisters,  of  which  there  were  seven  in  the  family.  For  three  years  he  re- 
mained so  employed  but  at  the  end  of  that  period  started  for  himself  by  accept- 
ing a clerkship  in  a general  mercantile  store  in  Dodge  county,  this  state.  He 
held  his  first  position  for  about  two  years  and  then  traveled  for  three  years  with 
different  specialties  throughout  Wisconsin.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  entered 
the  retail  shoe  business  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  for  twelve  years  conducted  an 
establishment  of  this  kind  here.  In  1908  he  established  the  Joas  Investment 
Company  and  has  ever  since  done  a continually  growing  real-estate,  loan  and 
insurance  business.  He  is  well  informed  as  to  local  values  of  real-estate  and 
many  important  transactions  have  passed  through  his  hands.  His  insurance 
department  is  also  largely  patronized  and  he  often  is  able  to  negotiate  or  place 
loans  for  clients  at  an  advantageous  figure  of  interest. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  in  1898,  Mr.  Joas  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Carrie 
L.  Zeitinger,  a daughter  of  Anthony  F.  and  Mary  Zeitinger,  both  of  whom  have 
passed  away,  their  burial  taking  place  in  St.  Louis,  Missouri.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Joas  have  three  children,  who  are  yet  at  home.  They  are  Francis,  Vivian  and 
Julian.  Mr.  Joas  has  erected  a handsome  residence  at  No.  422  West  Columbia 
street  and  there  the  family  reside,  extending  a warm-hearted  hospitality  to  their 
many  friends. 

In  his  political  affiliations  Mr.  Joas  is  a democrat  but  has  never  aspired  to 
office,  although  worthy  public  movements  find  in  him  a stalwart  supporter. 
He  is  fraternally  a member  of  the  Knights  of  Columbus  and  religiously  con- 
nected with  the  Catholic  church,  of  which  he  and  his  family  are  devout  com- 
municants. An  enterprising  and  aggressive  man,  Mr.  Joas  finds  in  the  real- 


30 


'PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


estate  and  financial  business  a large  field  for  his  natural  abilities  and  has 
attained  to  a position  which  assures  him  of  the  respect  and  confidence  of  his 
fellow  citizens. 


E.  L.  HENDERSON,  D.  D.  S. 

Dr.  E.  L.  Henderson  is  engaged  in  the  practice  of  dentistry  in  Bloomer  and 
is  well  qualified  to  discharge  the  delicate  and  onerous  duties  devolving  upon  him 
in  this  connection.  He  was  born  in  Dane  county,  Wisconsin,  in  1885,  and  is  a 
son  of  James  P.  Henderson,  a native  of  Scotland.  The  father  came  to  the 
United  States  in  childhood  and  was  a resident  of  New  York  for  a time.  After 
a few  years,  however,  he  removed  westward  to  Wisconsin  and  in  this  state  de- 
voted his  life  to  farming,  which  he  carried  on  with  substantial  success  until  death 
called  him,  at  the  age  of  sixty-seven  years.  His  widow,  who  bore  the  maiden 
name  of  Ellen  Brown,  is  still  living  in  Dane  county.  They  were  the  parents  of 
seven  children,  five  of  whom  survive. 

E.  L.  Henderson  was  reared  and  educated  in  Dane  county,  spending  his 
youthful  days  in  the  usual  manner  of  farm  lads.  He  worked  in  the  fields  dur- 
ing the  summer  months  and  in  the  winter  seasons  mastered  the  branches  of 
learning  taught  in  the  public  schools.  His  intellectual  activity  pointed  to  a pro- 
fessional career  and  deciding  upon  the  practice  of  dentistry  he  entered  the 
College  of  Dental  Surgery  at  Chicago,  from  which  he  was  graduated  with  the 
class  of  1908.  He  then  practiced  for  two  years  in  Dane  county  and  in  1909 
removed  to  Bloomer,  where  he  opened  an  office.  He  has  a well  appointed  oper- 
ating room,  possessing  the  latest  improvements  in  dental  instruments  and  equip- 
ments. He  possesses,  too,  that  skill  and  ingenuity  so  necessary  to  the  dentist 
and  his  labors  have  been  attended  with  excellent  results. 

In  1909  Dr.  Henderson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mabel  Paulson,  of 
Dane  county.  Politically  he  is  a republican  and  though  he  does  not  seek  nor 
desire  office  as  a reward  for  party  fealty,  he  is  always  loyal  to  his  honest  con- 
victions. He  belongs  to  the  Masonic  fraternity  and  the  family  attends  the  Con- 
gregational church.  Principles  of  honorable  manhood  have  ever  characterized 
his  life  and  made  him  one  of  the  worthy  and  respected  residents  of  his  adopted 
county. 


ONIAS  G.  WRIGHT. 

Onias  G.  Wright,  the  owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  one  hundred  and 
thirty  acres  on  sections  6 and  1,  Lafayette  township,  there  devoted  his  attention 
to  the  pursuits  of  farming  and  dairying  for  many  years  and  is  now  living  retired 
in  the  enjoyment  of  well  earned  ease.  The  period  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa 
county  covers  thirty-six  years  and  he  is  well  known  as  one  of  its  honored 
pioneers.  His  birth  occurred  in  Springfield.  Massachusetts,  on  the  2d  of 
December,  1838,  his  parents  being  Aaron  G.  and  Ruth  (Tilly)  Wright,  both  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


31 


whom  are  deceased  and  lie  buried  at  Springfield,  Massachusetts.  The  father 
was  a machinist  by  trade.  The  Wright  family  is  of  English  origin. 

Onias  G.  Wright  attended  school  in  his  native  city  until  eighteen  years  of  age 
and  then  became  connected  with  railroading.  In  1863,  when  a young  man  of 
twenty-five  years,  he  enlisted  in  the  Union  army  as  a member  of  Company  I, 
Second  Massachusetts  Artillery,  and  for  his  service  during  that  sanguinary  con- 
flict now  draws  a pension.  After  the  cessation  of  hostilities  between  the  north 
and  the  south  he  again  took  up  railroading  and  subsequently  spent  three  years 
as  a sailor  on  the  Great  Lakes.  In  1877  he  purchased  a homestead  in  Chippewa 
county,  Wisconsin,  the  property  being  entirely  undeveloped  and  unimproved. 
He  undertook  the  arduous  task  of  clearing  the  land  and  preparing  it  for  the 
plow  and  eventually  had  eighty-three  acres  thereof  under  cultivation.  Mr. 
Wright  followed  mixed  farming  and  also  devoted  considerable  attention  to  dairy- 
ing, meeting  with  a well  merited  and  gratifying  measure  of  success  in  both 
branches  of  his  business.  Now,  in  the  evening  of  life,  he  is  enabled  to  spend 
his  days  in  honorable  retirement,  enjoying  a competence  which  has  come  to  him 
by  well  directed  effort  and  able  management. 

At  Castle  Rock,  Wisconsin,  on  the  4th  of  December,  1876,  Mr.  Wright  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Ruth  A.  Stevens,  a daughter  of  S.  G.  and  Christine 
(Cushman)  Stevens,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  lie  buried  in  the  Bate- 
man cemetery.  The  father  was  a pioneer  agriculturist  of  Minnesota.  Unto 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wright  were  bom  two  children,  namely:  Stella,  who  is  the  wife 
of  William  Shafer,  a farmer  of  this  county ; and  Nellie,  the  deceased  wife  of 
Ephraim  Gardner.  The  latter  died  when  thirty-three  years  of  age  and  is  buried 
at  Duluth,  Minnesota. 

Mr.  Wright  is  a republican  in  his  political  views  and  a stanch  champion  of 
the  cause  of  education,  ably  serving  its  interests  while  acting  as  clerk  and  treas-' 
urer  of  the  school  board.  He  belongs  to  Comfort  Post,  G.  A.  R.,  and  thus 
still  maintains  pleasant  relations  with  his  old  army  comrades.  He  has  witnessed 
remarkable  changes  in  Chippewa  county  during  the  long  period  of  his  residence 
here  and  his  influence  has  always  been  given  on  the  side  of  progress,  truth,  justice 
and  right. 


JULIUS  B.  FISK. 

Julius  B.  Fisk,  who  since  April,  1912,  has  owned  and  conducted  the  Hol- 
combe Hotel  at  Holcombe,  Wisconsin,  was  born  in  Juneau  county,  this  state,  in 
1857,  and  is  a son  of  Reuben  and  Mary  (Pierce)  Fisk,  both  of  whom  have  passed 
away,  the  father  dying  in  1907  and  the  mother  in  1905.  They  are  buried  in 
Wonewoc,  Wisconsin. 

Julius  B.  Fisk  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county 
and  at  the  age  of  fourteen  laid  aside  his  books.  He  afterward  engaged  in  the 
mercantile  business  until  1896  and  then  moved  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he 
turned  his  attention  to  farming.  His  land  was  situated  some  distance  from  a 
postoffice  and  the  transportation  facilities  were  limited,  so  that  during  the  six- 
teen years  he  resided  upon  his  farm  he  often  had  to  walk  fourteen  miles  to  get 


32 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


his  mail.  With  characteristic  energy  he  carried  forward  the  work  of  improve- 
ment, erecting  a fine  residence,  a substantial  barn  and  the  necessary  outbuildings 
and  finally  becoming  the  owner  of  a valuable  and  productive  farm.  He  dis- 
posed of  that  property  in  1912  and  moved  into  Holcombe,  where  he  purchased 
the  Holcombe  Hotel,  which  he  has  since  conducted.  He  has  proven  a farsighted, 
able  and  progressive  business  man  and  in  his  new  venture  has  met  with  a grat- 
ifying and  well  deserved  success. 

In  Juneau  county,  Wisconsin,  June  10,  1878,  Mr.  Fisk  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Albina  Holland,  a daughter  of  James  and  Rose  (Osmer)  Holland, 
both  of  whom  died  when  Mrs.  Fisk  was  still  an  infant.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Fisk  have 
become  the  parents  of  three  children:  Harry  L.,  the  proprietor  of  a shoe  store 
in  Montana;  Alfonzo,  a railroad  engineer,  with  headquarters  at  Holcombe;  and 
May,  who  lives  at  home. 

Mr.  Fisk  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Foresters 
and  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political 
beliefs.  Although  a late  arrival  in  Holcombe,  he  has  already  become  established 
as  an  important  business  factor  here  and  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all 
who  are  brought  in  contact  with  him. 


AUGUST  PLAGUE. 

August  Plagge,  an  energetic,  industrious  and  enterprising  agriculturist  of 
Cleveland  township,  is  the  owner  of  a well  improved  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  on  section  12.  His  birth  occurred  in  Hanover,  Germany,  on  the 
2d  of  April,  1869,  and  in  that  country  his  parents  passed  away.  When  a young 
man  of  nineteen,  August  Plagge  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States  and, 
making  his  way  to  Wisconsin,  here  secured  employment  in  the  woods  and  on 
the  river.  Subsequently  he  purchased  a tract  of  forty  acres  which  was  covered 
with  timber  and  after  clearing  the  property  erected  thereon  a log  house,  while 
six  months  later  he  built  a frame  dwelling.  He  has  since  extended  the  bound- 
aries of  his  farm  by  additional  purchase  until  it  now  embraces  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  of  rich  and  productive  land  on  section  12,  Cleveland  township.  There 
is  a valuable  spring  on  the  property  which  furnishes  water  to  the  house  and 
also  for  the  stock.  The  well  tilled  fields  annually  yield  golden  harvests  as  a 
reward  for  the  care  and  labor  which  he  bestows  upon  them  and  his  success  en- 
titles him  to  recognition  among  the  substantial  and  representative  citizens  of  the 
community. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Plagge  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Eliza  Hen- 
nekens,  a native  of  Germany  and  a sister  of  August  and  Fred  Hennekens,  sketches 
of  whom  appear  on  other  pages  of  this  volume.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have 
two  children,  Henry  and  August.  Another  son,  Otto,  died  at  the  age  of  five 
years. 

In  politics  Mr.  Plagge  is  a stanch  republican,  while  his  religious  faith  is  that 
of  the  German  Lutheran  church.  The  hope  that  led  him  to  leave  his  native 
land  and  seek  a home  in  America  has  been  more  than  realized.  He  found  the 
opportunities  he  sought, — which,  by  the  way,  are  always  open  to  the  ambitious, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


33 


energetic  man, — and  making  the  best  of  these  he  has  steadily  worked  his  way 
upward.  He  possesses  the  resolution,  perseverance  and  reliability  so  character- 
istic of  his  nation,  and  his  name  is  now  enrolled  among  the  best  citizens  of  Chip- 
pewa county. 


ALFRED  E.  EMERSON. 

Alfred  E.  Emerson,  a progressive  and  enterprising  citizen  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
serving  since  1912  as  assessor  of  income  taxes,  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa  county, 
born  April  27,  1S77.  His  parents  are  Edward  and  Johannah  (Larson)  Emer- 
son, residents  of  Chippewa  Falls,  where  the  father  is  prominent  in  community 
life,  having  held  such  important  public  positions  as  register  of  deeds  and  deputy 
sheriff. 

Alfred  E.  Emerson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
Falls  working  at  the  same  time  in  the  lumber  woods.  He  then  attended  for  one 
year  the  State  University  at  Madison.  After  laying  aside  his  school  books  he 
obtained  a position  as  clerk  in  the  office  of  the  railroad  commission  at  Madison 
and  retained  this  position  until  he  resigned  in  order  to  accept  his  present  place. 
He  has  also  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  and  owns  a farm  of  two  hundred 
and  ten  acres  in  Cleveland  township,  engaging  thereon  in  the  dairy  business. 
In  1912  he  was  elected  assessor  of  income  taxes  for  Chippewa  county  and  he 
has  since  held  this  office,  discharging  his  duties  in  a way  which  reflects  credit  upon 
his  integrity,  energy  and  public  spirit. 

In  Madison,  Wisconsin,  in  1903,  Mr.  Emerson  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Molly  Bingham,  a daughter  of  Eric  Bingham,  of  that  city.  Mrs.  Emer- 
son passed  away  in  September,  1907,  leaving  a son,  Irvin  J.  Mr.  Emerson  is  a 
member  of  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  is  affiliated  also  with  the  Sons 
of  Norway.  He  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs,  voting  for  men  and  meas- 
ures without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  at  all  times  a stanch  supporter  of 
progressive  public  movements  and  his  cooperation  may  always  be  relied  upon 
in  projects  for  the  general  welfare. 


HAMLIN  A.  TOWN. 

Hamlin  A.  Town,  a representative  of  one  of  the  best  known  pioneer  families 
in  Chippewa  county,  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  thirty 
acres  on  section  19,  Wheaton  township.  Upon  this  property  he  has  lived  since 
he  was  four  years  of  age  and  he  has  been  its  active  manager  since  1874,  the 
results  of  his  careful  supervision  and  practical  labor  being  seen  in  its  attractive 
appearance  and  excellent  condition.  He  was  born  in  Rose,  Wayne  county,  New 
York,  November  17,  1853,  and  is  a son  of  Henry  M.  and  Malina  J.  (Chamber- 
lain)  Town,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away.  The  father  came  as  a pioneer  to 
Wisconsin,  settling  in  Rock  county,  and  in  1857  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county, 
where  he-  resided  until  his  death.  He  became  very  prominent  in  local  public 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


34 

afitairs,  serving  as  the  first  member  of  the  first  town  board  of  Wheaton  and  later 
as  chairman  of  the  town  board,  town  clerk  and  justice  of  the  peace.  He  was 
especially  interested  in  the  cause  of  education  and  organized  the  first  school 
in  Wheaton,  giving  a great  deal  of  time  and  attention  to  its  affairs.  He  passed 
away  in  October,  18P4,  after  having  been  an  invalid  for  a number  of  years,  and 
was  survived  by  his  wife  until  September,  1905.  The  Town  family  is  of  old 
Puritan  stock,  the  first  representative,  William  Town,  and  his  wife,  Johanna 
Blessing,  having  come  to  the  United  States  in  1630  when  they  settled  in  Salem, 
Massachusetts.  On  the  maternal  side  Mr.  Town  is  a lineal  descendant  of  James 
Hamlin,  of  the  Hamlin  family  of  which  Vice  President  Hannibal  Hamlin  was 
an  honored  member.  This  line  was  founded  in  America  in  the  year  1640. 

Hamlin  A.  Town  was  the  first  stu’dent  in  the  school  which  his  father  founded 
in  Wheaton  and  he  continued  his  studies  until  he  was  twenty-one  years  of  age. 
He  then  laid  aside  his  books  in  order  to  assume  the  management  of  the  home- 
stead, his  father’s  ill  health  not  permitting  him  to  engage  in  the  active  labor  of 
the  farm.  Mr.  Town  has  since  operated  this  property  and  is  today  the  owner 
of  the  farm,  which  comprises  one  hundred  and  thirty  acres  of  valuable  land  on 
section  19,  Wheaton  township.  In  addition  to  general  farming  he  also  has  ex- 
tensive stock-raising  interests,  keeping  about  twenty  head  of  cattle,  fifteen  hogs 
and  four  horses. 

On  the  22d  of  November,  1883,  Mr.  Town  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Hattie  Wells,  a daughter  of  Simeon  and  Mary  (Smith)  Wells,  both  of  whom 
have  passed  away,  the  former  dying  January  19,  1874,  and  the  latter  March  11, 
1902.  Mrs.  Town  passed  away  Aharch  12,  1913,  and  is  buried  in  the  Wheaton 
cemetery.  She  left  three  children,  Clarence,  Harlow  and  Alilton. 

Ahr.  Town  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  church  and  in  1912  joined  the  pro- 
gressive party.  He  has  been  active  in  community  affairs  and  has  held  the  same 
public  offices  that  his  father  held,  his  record  as  an  official  and  as  a private  citizen 
being  a credit  to  a name  that  has  long  been  an  honored  one  in  this  community. 


ROBERT  BRITTON. 

Robert  Britton,  living  on  an  excellent  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres 
on  section  13,  Wheaton  township,  devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  general  agri- 
cultural pursuits  and  stock-raising.  He  is  one  of  the  early  settlers  in  this  part  of 
the  state,  having  come  here  in  1858  and  has  witnessed  a great  deal  of  the  develop- 
ment of  this  locality,  taking  advantage  of  the  opportunities  which  it  offered 
to  achieve  a gratifying  and  well  deserved  success.  He  was  born  in  England, 
Aharch  8,  1848,  and  is  a son  of  Thomas  and  Alary  (Peacock)  Britton,  both  of 
whom  have  passed  away,  the  father  dying  in  1898.  He  is  buried  in  North 
Dakota. 

Robert  Britton  was  ten  years  of  age  when  he  was  brought  to  Chippewa  county 
by  his  father  and  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  halls, 
laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  After  leaving  school  he  began 
working  in  the  lumber  woods  and  so  continued  for  about  thirty  years  thereafter. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  buying  one  hundred 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


35 


and  sixty  acres  on  section  13,  Wheaton  township,  which  he  now  owns.  He  has 
one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  under  cultivation  and  is  specializing  in  the  rais- 
ing of  grain,  his  efforts  along  this  line  having  been  attended  with  excellent  results. 
Mr.  Britton  has  made  many  substantial  improvements  upon  his  farm,  erecting 
a fine  residence,  a good  barn  and  the  necessary  outbuildings,  and  he  owns  today 
one  of  the  best  improved  and  most  valuable  agricultural  properties  in  this  vicinity. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  in  1873,  Mr.  Britton  married  Miss  Emma  Orm,  a daughter 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  Orm,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away.  The  father  died 
when  Mrs.  Britton  was  still  very  young  and  both  parents  are  buried  in  Mil- 
waukee. Mr.  and  Mrs.  Britton  have  become  the  parents  of  nine  children : Wil- 
liam, who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Chippewa  county;  Jennie,  the  wife  of  Chris 
Miller,  a resident  of  Washington;  Emma,  who  married  Hall  Gulder,  engaged  in 
the  cigarmaking  business  at  Belt,  Montana ; Thomas,  a market  gardener  in 
Chippewa  county ; Robert,  engaged  in  cigarmaking  in  Montana ; Rachel,  the 
wife  of  Herman  Kopp,  a cigarmaker  in  Chippewa  Falls;  Frank,  engaged  in  the 
same  line  of  business  in  Montana;  Lillie  M.,  a resident  of  Montana;  and  Albian 
Myles,  who  lives  at  home. 

Mr.  Britton  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  keenly  interested  in 
the  growth  and  development  of  the  county  in  which  he  has  so  long  resided.  His 
life  record  shows  what  may  be  accomplished  by  determination,  a persistent  spirit 
and  unfaltering  enterprise.  He  has  carefully  noted  and  used  his  opportunities, 
making  each  moment  count,  and  his  example  of  unremitting  industry  and  per- 
severance is  one  well  worthy  of  emulation. 


ALEXIS  A.  GAYNOR. 

Alexis  A.  Gaynor,  principal  of  the  manual  and  dramatic  arts  department  of 
the  State  Home  for  the  Feeble  Minded  at  Chippewa  Falls,  was  born  in  Dund- 
rum,  King’s  county,  Ireland,  March  13,  1876,  and  is  a son  of  W.  J.  and  Theresa 
M.  (Hammond)  Gaynor,  both  of  whom  still  reside  in  the  Emerald  isle,  the 
father  being  a retired  captain  of  the  Royal  Horse  Artillery. 

Alexis  A.  Gaynor  acquired  his  education  in  the  Black  Church  school  in 
Dublin  and  in  1898  came  to  America,  settling  in  Philadelphia,  where  he  attended 
an  art  school  for  some  time.  He  afterward  secured  a position  in  the  art  depart- 
ment of  Wanamaker’s  store  and  at  the  end  of  one  year  resigned  this  in  order  to 
go  to  Europe.  There  he  studied  art  as  applied  to  the  work  of  public  institutions 
under  Brophy  and  Dupree  and  he  thus  received  a thorough  training  in  the  line 
of  work  in  which  he  had  determined  to  engage.  Upon  the  completion  of  his 
course  in  Europe  he  secured  a position  in  the  Pennsylvania  Training  School,  and 
afterward  was  connected  with  a similar  institution  at  Oakbourne,  Pennsylvania. 

This  he  resigned  in  1903  and  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  became  iden- 
tified with  the  State  Home  for  the  Feeble  Minded  as  principal  of  the  manual  and 
dramatic  arts  departments.  He  has  been  in  charge  of  this  department  since  that 
time  and,  having  supplemented  excellent  training  by  practical  experience,  has 
accomplished  a great  deal  of  capable  and  farsighted  work. 


36 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  August  16,  1905,  Mr.  Gaynor  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Emily  Mieding,  a daughter  of  Rudolph  Mieding,  a wholesale  drug- 
gist of  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gaynor  have  become  the  parents  of  four  chil- 
dren, three  sons  and  one  daughter.  Mr.  Gaynor  is  a devout  member  of  the 
Roman  Catholic  church  and  fraternally  is  connected  with  the  Knights  of  Pythias. 
His  political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  democratic  party  and  he  has  held  various 
positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  in  an  able,  efficient  way  as  alderman 
and  member  of  the  county  board.  The  institution  with  which  he  is  connected  is 
fortunate  in  numbering  him  among  its  officials,  for  he  is  an  expert  in  his  chosen 
line  of  work  and  sueccessful  because  he  has  made  a special  study  of  everything 
relating  to  it. 


W.  C.  STOLL. 

Among  the  successful  farmers  of  Holcombe  township,  Chippewa  county,  is 
W.  C.  Stoll,  who  owns  fourteen  forty-acre  tracts  on  sections  24  and  25,  town- 
ship 31,  range  6,  improved  with  two  sets  of  buildings.  Not  only  has  Mr.  Stoll 
attained  individual  prosperity  but  through  his  labors  he  has  greatly  contributed 
to  the  agricultural  advancement  made  in  Chippewa  county.  A native  son  of 
Wisconsin,  he  was  born  in  Vernon  county  on  Christmas  day  of  1863  and  is  a 
son  of  Charles  A.  and  Sophia  Stoll,  born  near  Hamburg,  Germany.  Upon 
coming  to  this  country  the  father  homesteaded  in  Vernon  county  and  was  a 
pioneer  in  the  Kickapoo  country,  where  he  passed  away.  The  mother  survives 
and  now  makes  her  home  at  Viola,  Wisconsin. 

W.  C.  Stoll  was  educated  in  the  neighborhood  of  his  father's  farm  and 
early  trained  by  his  parents  in  the  old-fashioned  virtues  of  industry  and  hon- 
esty. On  the  father’s  place  he  became  acquainted  with  thorough  agricultural 
methods  and  acquired  a knowledge  of  farm  details  which  has  ever  stood  him 
in  good  stead.  In  1901  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  acquiring  by  purchase 
thirteen  forty-acre  tracts  of  wild  land,  and  later  another  forty-acre  tract.  He 
immediately  settled  down  to  the  task  of  clearing  and  improving  his  land  and  in 
that  occupation  has  achieved  a notable  success.  He  engages  in  general  farming 
and  the  years  have  brought  him  prosperity  along  that  line.  There  are  two 
residences  on  the  place  and  also  two  large,  substantial  and  well  equipped  barns 
as  well  as  other  outbuildings.  His  land  is  devoted  to  such  cereals  as  are  best 
adapted  to  soil  and  climate,  and  the  appearance  of  the  place  speaks  well  for  the 
progressiveness  of  its  owner. 

On  December  29,  1883,  in  Vernon  county,  Mr.  Stoll  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Etta  Downer,  a daughter  of  Charles  H.  and  Lucinda  (Taylor)  Downer, 
both  natives  of  New  York  state.  The  former  was  for  many  years  a farmer 
but,  with  his  wife,  is  now  living  retired  at  Viola,  Wisconsin.  To  Mr.  and  Mrsi 
Stoll  were  born  eight  children:  A.  IT.,  who  married  Anna  Harriet  Butler,  by 
whom  he  has  two  sons,  Kenneth  Delmore  and  Charles  Everett,  and  who  assists 
his  father  with  the  operation  of  the  home  farm;  Estella  Pearl,  who  married 
Myron  C.  Wfllis,  of  Colburn  township;  Charles  Arthur;  Gertrude  May,  who 


W.  C.  STOLI 


MRS.  W.  C.  STOLL 


. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


41 


married  Paul  K.  Brown,  of  Ruby  township;  and  Ethel  Ruby,  Fred  Lewis, 
Adeline  and  Grace  Sophia,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Stoll  gives  his  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Although  he  is  deeply 
interested  in  all  matters  of  public  moment,  he  has  never  seen  fit  to  actively 
enter  politics,  preferring  to  discharge  his  duties  as  an  American  citizen  in  a 
private  way.  However,  by  contributing  toward  the  agricultural  advancement 
of  the  section,  he  has  done  perhaps  as  much  as  any  public  official  in  carrying 
forward  the  banner  of  civilization,  and  he  is  therefore  not  only  highly  esteemed 
on  account  of  what  he  has  accomplished  in  the  way  of  material  success  for  him- 
self but  also  for  what  his  labors  have  contributed  toward  the  general  welfare 
by  indirectly  building  up  this  section  of  Chippewa  county.  His  friends  and 
neighbors  speak  of  him  only  in  the  highest  terms  of  praise  and  he  well  merits 
their  good-will  and  confidence,  which  have  been  won  because  of  his  high  qualities 
of  mind  and  character. 


CHARLES  MARRINER. 

Charles  Marriner  is  ably  discharging  the  duties  devolving  upon  him  in  the 
capacity  of  postmaster  of  Cadott,  to  which  position  he  was  appointed  in  1912. 
He  is  numbered  among  the  worthy  native  sons  of  Chippewa  county,  his  birth 
having  occurred  in  Cadott  on  the  23d  of  November,  1869.  His  father,  Robert 
Marriner,  was  born  at  Milton,  Northumberland  county,  Pennsylvania,  on  the 
10th  of  June,  1830,  and  when  a little  lad  of  seven  years  was  taken  to  Allegheny, 
that  state,  where  he  acquired  his  education.  After  putting  aside  his  text-books 
he  worked  as  a shoemaker  until  he  had  attained  his  majority  and  subsequently 
spent  a short  time  as  a buggy  salesman.  In  1853  he  came  to  Chippewa  county, 
Wisconsin,  which  then  comprised  the  area  from  Lake  Superior  to  Eau  Claire, 
and  there  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life,  passing  away  in  1911.  He  first  worked 
in  and  around  sawmills  and  later  formed  a partnership  with  Larry  Calhoun. 
They  rafted  logs  to  the  Mississippi  river  under  contract  and  on  the  return  trip 
brought  back  supplies  to  Eau'Claire  and  Chippewa  Falls.  In  the  winter  of  1857-8 
Mr.  Marriner  put  logs  in  the  Yellow  river  and  in  the  fall  of  the  latter  year 
preempted  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land,  the  property  including  the  water 
power  and  most  of  the  site  of  Cadott.  He  was  elected  sheriff  of  Chippewa 
county  in  1859  and  held  the  office  during  that  year  and  i860.  At  that  early 
period  the  district  was  infested  with  many  desperate  characters,  but  Mr.  Mar- 
riner proved  himself  a fearless  official  and  exercised  his  authority  even  at  the 
risk  of  his  life.  Possessing  strong  will  power,  a quick  eye  and  steady  nerve,  he 
remained  unharmed  in  times  of  extreme  danger  and  by  successfully  enforcing 
the  law  commanded  the  respect  of  all.  In  1862  he  was  appointed  provost  marshal 
of  Chippewa  county,  ably  discharging  the  important  duties  devolving  upon  him 
in  that  connection  until  the  close  of  the  Civil  war.  In  1865  he  built  the  first 
sawmill  in  Cadott,  utilizing  the  water  power  on  his  land,  and  ten  years  later 
erected  the  first  roller  flour  mill  in  the  town. 

In  1875  he  platted  the  village  of  Cadott  and  at  his  own  expense  purchased 
a stump  puller,  by  means  of  which  he  cleared  away  the  stumps  from  the  streets 

Voi  n— 


42 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  the  village.  He  served  as  the  first  postmaster  of  Cadott  and  held  the  office 
until  the  inauguration  of  President  Cleveland,  when  he  resigned.  Robert  Mar- 
riner  was  the  pioneer  and  founder  of  Cadott,  which  now  has  a population  of 
about  eight  hundred.  The  period  of  his  residence  there  covered  almost  six 
decades  and  during  all  those  years  his  labors  were  a potent  element  in  the  up- 
building and  development  of  the  district.  His  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name 
of  Eleanor  Norway,  was  a native  of  New  York  and  passed  away  in  1901  at  the 
age  of  seventy-two  years.  Our  subject  is  the  only  surviving  member  of  their 
family  of  six  children. 

Charles  Marriner  attended  common  school  at  Cadott  until  fifteen  years  of 
age  and  after  putting  aside  his  text-books  worked  in  the  flour  mill  until  it  was 
destroyed  by  fire  in  1888.  Subsequently  he  was  engaged  in  various  occupations 
until  appointed  postmaster  of  Cadott  in  1912,  since  which  time  he  has  proved 
an  efficient  incumbent  of  that  position.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens  State 
Bank  of  Cadott  and  owns  water  power,  a residence  and  several  lots  in  the  town. 

On  the  29th  of  June,  1901,  at  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Marriner  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Laura  Vender  Bie,  her  father  being  Engel  Vender 
Bie,  a cabinet-maker  and  fire  insurance  man  of  Platteville,  Wisconsin.  Unto 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Marriner  have  been  born  four  children,  namely:  Hiltja  E. ; Laura; 
Charles  N.,  whose  demise  occurred  in  1908;  and  Beatrice.  Mr.  Marriner  is  a 
republican  in  his  political  views  and  has  served  as  a member  of  the  county  board 
for  eight  years.  In  the  community  where  his  entire  life  has  been  spent  he  is 
well  known  as  a substantial,  esteemed  and  representative  citizen. 


T.  B.  HASKINS. 

T.  B.  Haskins  is  proprietor  of  a well  appointed  meat  market  in  Bloomer.  He 
has  been  a life  long  resident  of  Chippewa  county,  his  birth  having  occurred  within 
its  borders  in  1868.  He  is  a son  of  T.  Y.  Haskins,  a native  of  Illinois,  who  in 
the  year  1855  came  to  Wisconsin,  settling  about  a mile  from  Bloomer  upon  a 
tract  of  land  which  he  devoted  to  general  farming,  carrying  on  agricultural 
pursuits  for  a number  of  years.  He  died  in  Bloomer  in  1903  at  an  advanced 
age,  and  left  behind  him  many  friends  who  entertained  for  him  warm  regard.  In 
early  manhood  he  wedded  Sophia  Walmsly,  who  also  died  in  this  county.  They 
were  the  parents  of  six  children,  of  whom  four  are  living. 

T.  B.  Haskins  was  a pupil  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county  and 
devoted  portions  of  his  youth  to  farm  work,  assisting  his  father  in  the  labors 
of  the  fields.  He  was  afterward  engaged  in  the  milling  business  and  then,  desir- 
ing to  add  to  his  education,  he  became  a student  in  the  Superior  University.  He 
thus  became  well  equipped  for  life’s  practical  and  responsible  duties,  and  when 
his  text-books  were  put  aside  he  turned  his  attention  to  the  meat  business,  in 
which  he  has  since  continued,  remaining  at  his  present  location  for  the  past  eleven 
years.  He  slaughters  his  own  cattle,  puts  up  his  own  ice  and  has  a well  equipped 
plant,  enabling  him  to  care  for  his  meats  in  most  modern  and  approved  manner. 
His  stock  comprises  a full  line  of  fresh  and  salt  meats,  for  which  he  finds  a 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


43 


ready  sale,  his  honorable  and  enterprising  business  methods  securing  him  a liberal 
and  well  merited  patronage. 

In  1899  Mr.  Haskins  was  married  to  Miss  Barbara  Hartman,  of  Bloomer,  and 
unto  them  have  been  born  two  children,  Violet  and  Lantz,  who  are  attending 
school.  The  parents  hold  membership  in  the  Congregational  church  and  Mr. 
Haskins  belongs  to  the  fraternal  organizations  of  Woodmen  and  Beavers.  His 
political  allegiance  is  given  the  republican  party,  which  he  has  supported  since 
age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of  franchise. 


WILLIAM  E.  DE  KELVER. 

William  E.  De  Kelver,  one  of  the  most  progressive  and  able  young  business 
men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  has  since  1905  been  proprietor  of  the  Chippewa  Glove 
Factory  and  through  well  directed  efforts  has  developed  a concern  which  is  today 
ranked  with  the  leading  industrial  enterprises  of  the  city.  He  was  born  in 
Green  Bay,  Wisconsin,  September  29,  1879,  and  is  a son  of  J.  F.  and  Mary 
(Vincent)  De  Kelver,  the  former  of  whom  was  one  of  the  early  merchants  of  the 
old  Green  Bay  settlement. 

William  E.  De  Kelver  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of 
his  native  city  and  afterward  attended  normal  school  at  Oshkosh,  from  which 
he  was  graduated  in  1901.  In  the  same  year  he  turned  his  attention  to  teaching, 
becoming  principal  of  the  public  schools  at  Amberg,  Wisconsin,  a position  which 
he  retained  until  1905.  In  that  year  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  although 
he  had  had  no  experience  in  business,  turned  his  attention  to  this  field  and  pur- 
chased the  Chippewa  Glove  and  Mitten  Company  and  continued  operations  under 
the  style  of  the  Chippewa  Glove  Factory,  of  which  he  has  since  been  the  owner. 
The  success  of  the  concern  was  immediate.  Starting  in  a small  way,  the  factory 
furnishing  employment  to  only  five  people,  Mr.  De  Kelver  has  developed  a large 
industrial  institution  occupying  a floor  space  of  fifty  by  one  hundred  and  forty 
feet  and  furnishing  employment  to  thirty-five  people  in  its  various  departments. 
The  remarkable  growth  of  the  institution  is  due  entirely  to  the  owner’s  courage, 
determination  and  well  directed  efforts  and  his  career  furnishes  a splendid  example 
of  the  value  of  these  qualities  in  the  accomplishment  of  success.  He  is  still  a 
young  man  but  has  already  been  carried  forward  into  important  relations  with 
business  interests  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  the  city  owes  to  him  the  development  and 
upbuilding  of  one  of  her  important  industrial  concerns. 


FRED  W.  HENNEKENS. 

Fred  W.  Hennekens,  a representative  and  successful  agriculturist  of  Cleve- 
land township,  owns  and  operates  a well  improved  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  on  section  12.  He  is  a native  of  Hanover.  Germany,  and  a son  of  Tohann 
and  Sophia  Wilhelmina  (Vegel)  Hennekens.  The  mother  died  in  that  country 
but  the  father  emigrated  to  the  United  States  and  settled  in  Cleveland  township, 


44 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  here  passing  away  at  the  age  of  sixty-seven  years. 
Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johann  Hennekens  were  born  eight  children,  as  follows: 
Sophia,  who  is  the  wife  of  Henry  Plagge  and  makes  her  home  in  Germany; 
Henry,  who  is  a resident  of  Holland ; Louis  and  August,  living  in  Cleveland  town- 
ship, this  county ; Carrie,  who  is  the  widow  of  A1  Raymond  and  also  resides  in 
Cleveland  township ; Eliza,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  August  Plagge ; 
Fred  W.,  of  this  review;  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 

Fred  W.  Hennekens  obtained  his  education  in  the  common  schools  of  his 
native  land  and  when  a youth  of  seventeen  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  new  world, 
taking  up  his  abode  in  the  home  of  a sister  in  Cleveland  township,  this  county. 
He  secured  employment  on  the  river  and  in  the  woods  and  eventually  turned 
his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits,  purchasing  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  on  section  12,  Cleveland  township,  on  which  some  improvements 
had  been  made.  His  house,  substantial  and  commodious,  is  practically  new 
and  he  also  has  good  outbuildings.  His  farming  interests  have  returned  to  him 
a gratifying  annual  income  and  he  is  numbered  among  the  prosperous  and 
respected  citizens  of  his  community. 

In  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Hennekens  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Anna 
Gourdoux,  a native  of  Cleveland  township  and  a daughter  of  Alexander  Gour- 
doux,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  on  another  page  of  this  work.  Our  subject  and 
his  wife  have  six  children,  namely:  Fred  A.,  Eveline  A.,  Dorothea  E.,  Helena 
M.,  Theodore  J.  and  A.  Josephine.  All  are  still  at  home. 

Politically  Mr.  Hennekens  is  a stanch  republican,  exercising  his  right  of  fran- 
chise in  support  of  the  men  and  measures  of  that  party.  He  has  served  on  the 
township  board  of  supervisors,  also  in  the  capacity  of  justice  of  the  peace  and 
as  a member  of  the  school  board,  ever  proving  a capable  and  trustworthy  public 
official.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in  the  German  Lu- 
theran church.  His  support  is  given  to  all  progressive  measures  and  his  aid  can 
always  be  counted  upon  to  further  those  interests  which  are  of  genuine  worth 
in  the  county. 


WILLIAM  A.  MONTGOMERY. 

William  A.  Montgomery,  one  of  the  active  and  progressive  young  farmers  of 
Chippewa  county,  owning  and  operating  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  fine  land 
on  section  25,  Wheaton  township,  was  born  in  Eau  Claire,  this  state,  in  1881, 
and  is  a son  of  Archie  and  Imogene  (Kershner)  Montgomery,  residents  of  that 
city.  The  father  has  been  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  there  for  over  forty 
years  and  is  numbered  among  the  most  prominent  and  successful  business  men 
of  the  community. 

William  A.  Montgomery  acquired  his  education  in  the  schools  of  his  native 
city  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  twenty-three,  spending  seven  years 
thereafter  assisting  his  father  in  the  lumber  mills.  He  then  moved  to  Chippewa 
Falls  and  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Wheaton  township.  Upon 
this  farm  he  has  since  resided  and  has  placed  one  hundred  acres  under  cultiva- 
tion, meeting  with  that  success  which  always  follows  earnest  and  well  directed 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


45 


labor.  Mr.  Montgomery  carries  on  general  farming  and  is  also  extensively  inter- 
ested in  stock-raising,  keeping  about  twenty  head  of  cattle,  six  horses  and  fifteen 
hogs. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  on  the  22I  of  February,  1908,  Mr.  Montgomery 
was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  May  Anderson,  a daughter  of  Thomas  and  Paul- 
ine (Tarney)  Anderson,  the  former  of  whom  died  in  May,  1913,  and  the  latter 
in  1909.  Both  are  buried  in  Eau  Claire.  Air.  Alontgomery  is  a republican  in 
his  political  beliefs  and  interested  in  the  growth  of  his  township,  although  not  an 
active  office-seeker.  Although  still  a young  man,  he  is  already  ranked  with  the 
progressive  farmers  of  this  locality  and  his  continued  success  is  assured. 


SAAIUEL  JENKINS. 

The  history  of  the  commercial  development  of  Chippewa  Falls  would  be  in- 
complete  and  unsatisfactory  were  there  failure  to  make  mention  of  the  career  of 
Samuel  Jenkins,  proprietor  of  the  largest  department  store  in  the  city.  This 
enterprise  is  operated  under  the  name  of  Jenkins  Brothers  and  has  been  for  more 
than  thirty  years  a strong  and  reliable  business  concern,  the  name  standing  as  a 
synonym  for  honorable  and  upright  methods  of  dealing  and  for  business  progres- 
siveness. Air.  Jenkins  was  born  at  Weymouth,  England,  December  23,  1849, 
and  is  a son  of  Frank  K.  and  Mary  Ann  (Atkinson)  Jenkins,  also  natives  of 
that  country.  The  father  came  to  America  in  1852  and  for  about  nine  years 
thereafter  followed  the  shoemaker’s  trade.  He  fought  through  the  entire  period 
of  the  Civil  war,  going  to  the  front  as  commissary  and  winning  promotion  to  the 
rank  of  brevet  major,  holding  a commission  signed  by  President  Lincoln.  He 
died  almost  immediately  after  the  close  of  hostilities  and  is  buried  in  Baraboo, 
Wisconsin.  His  wife  survived  him  many  years,  dying  in  1893. 

Samuel  Jenkins  was  brought  to  America  by  his  parents  when  he  was  still  a 
child  and  he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Baraboo.  His 
career  furnishes  many  splendid  examples  of  the  value  of  determination,  persever- 
ance and  industry  in  the  accomplishment  of  success,  for  he  laid  aside  his  books 
at  the  early  age  of  fourteen  and  since  that  time  has  been  dependent  upon  his  own 
resources.  At  that  time  the  Civil  war  was  not  yet  ended  and  times  were  hard 
then  and  for  some  years  thereafter.  Air.  Jenkins  was  obliged  to  turn  his  atten- 
tion to  any  line  of  work  in  which  he  could  earn  an  honest  dollar  and  was  not 
ashamed  to  chop  wood  or  work  on  a farm.  Being  young,  ambitious  and  energetic, 
he  was  soon  fairly  successful  and  when  he  was  twenty-three  years  of  age  he 
owned  an  excellent  farm  of  eighty  acres,  well  improved  and  cultivated  and 
entirely  free  from  debt.  Selling  this  in  1882,  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where 
his  brother  George  P.  Jenkins  owned  a general  store,  in  which  the  subject  of  this 
review  bought  an  interest.  Three  years  later  George  P.  Jenkins  sold  his  interest 
to  his  brother  Rufus  A.  and  the  two  brothers,  Samuel  and  Rufus,  carried  on 
business  together  under  the  name  of  Jenkins  Brothers.  Each  year  witnessed 
the  expansion  of  the  enterprise,  for  its  proprietors  understood  the  mercantile 
business  in  principle  and  detail,  studied  business  conditions  and  conformed  to 
them,  neglecting  nothing  which  would  in  any  way  promote  the  growth  of  their 


46 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


store.  As  a result  of  their  progressive  and  practical  methods  the  concern  became 
the  largest  of  its  kind  in  the  county,  the  brothers  controlling  an  important  and 
representative  patronage.  Rufus  A.  Jenkins  died  June  30,  1912,  and  Samuel 
Jenkins  has  since  conducted  the  business,  retaining  the  old  name  of  Jenkins 
Brothers. 

At  Delton,  Wisconsin,  April  13,  1873,  Mr.  Jenkins  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Rosa  Marshall,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thomas  Marshall,  the  for- 
mer a pioneer  farmer  of  Sauk  county.  Both  have  passed  away  and  are  buried 
at  Delton.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jenkins  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children: 
May  E.,  who  married  Alexander  Wiley,  district  attorney  in  Chippewa  county ; 
and  R.  D.,  deputy  county  treasurer  of  Kootenai  county,  Idaho,  at  Coeur  d’Alene. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Jenkins  is  connected  with  the  Knights  of  the  Maccabees  and 
he  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  For  the  past  thirty  years  he  has  been 
numbered  among  the  enterprising  merchants  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  among  the 
greatest  individual  forces  in  the  commercial  development  of  the  city.  His  suc- 
cess has  been  entirely  the  result  of  his  own  well  directed  efforts,  for  he  started 
out  in  life  empty-handed  and  by  diligence,  energy  and  perseverance  has  gained 
prominence  and  substantial  fortune. 


FRANK  ZIMMERMAN. 

For  twenty-six  years  Frank  Zimmerman  has  been  prominently  connected 
with  the  business  interests  of  Cadott  as  a dealer  in  flour  and  feed  and  during 
the  whole  period  has  met  with  that  success  which  his  straightforward  business 
methods  and  his  practical  ability  so  well  deserve.  He  was  born  in  Washington 
county,  Maryland,  September  6,  1854,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Mary  (Johnstone) 
Zimmerman,  both  natives  of  that  state,  the  former  born  in  Washington  county 
in  1815  and  the  latter  in  Frederick  county.  The  father  was  a distiller  by  trade, 
following  this  occupation  until  his  death  in  1869.  His  wife  survives  him  and 
is  now  almost  ninety  years  of  age.  To  their  union  were  born  eight  children, 
Martha,  Julia  A.,  William  T.  H.,  Cornelia,  Eliza  C.,  Frank,  Frances  and  Robert  F. 

Frank  Zimmerman  had  no  educational  opportunities  but  he  has  made  up 
for  his  disadvantages  along  this  line  by  a wide  experience  and  contact  with  many 
sorts  and  conditions  of  men.  He  left  home  when  he  was  a mere  boy  and  traveled 
through  various  parts  of  the  United  States,  staying  for  some  time  in  Virginia, 
Colorado,  Kansas  City  and  Chicago  and  finally  in  1880  settling  in  Cadott.  He 
had  learned  the  well  and  ditch  digging  trade  but  after  following  it  for  one  year 
formed  a partnership  with  Mrs.  I.  W.  Sheldon  in  the  conduct  of  a boarding 
house.  He  purchased  his  partner’s  interests  at  the  end  of  one  year  and  after- 
ward ran  the  establishment  for  five  years.  In  1887  he  sold  this  enterprise  and 
opened  a grain  and  feed  store  which  he  still  conducts.  He  today  carries  a stock 
of  feed,  grain,  flour,  roofing  and  building  material  valued  at  six  thousand  dollars 
and  controls  a large  patronage  accorded  to  him  in  recognition  of  his  reasonable 
prices,  his  honorable  business  methods  and  his  earnest  desire  to  please  his  patrons. 
In  addition  to  his  store  property  he  owns  an  attractive  residence  in  Cadott  and 
six  hundred  acres  of  land  in  Chippewa  county. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


47 


In  Cadott,  on  the  3d  of  October,  1882,  Mr.  Zimmerman  married  Miss  Effie 
Boutelle,  who  was  born  June  19,  i860,  a daughter  of  William  and  Esther  E. 
(Woodbury)  Boutelle.  She  was  left  an  orphan  at  an  early  age  and  was  reared 
in  the  home  of  Dr.  Myers,  of  Wautoma,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Zimmerman 
have  two  children:  Robert  L.,  assistant  cashier  of  the  State  Bank  of  Holcombe; 
and  Ruby  F.,  who  was  graduated  from  the  musical  department  of  the  Normal 
Training  School  at  Detroit  in  December,  1911,  and  is  now  teaching  in  the  public 
schools. 

Mr.  Zimmerman  is  a member  of  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  is  independent  in 
his  political  beliefs.  He  served  as  treasurer  of  the  village  for  five  years  and  during 
that  time  proved  himself  a capable  and  farsighted  public  official.  A period  of 
residence  in  Cadott  covering  more  than  a quarter  of  a century  has  made  him 
widely  known  here  and  his  energy,  integrity  and  uprightness  of  character  have 
gained  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


HECTOR  C.  McRAE. 

A long  career  in  the  public  service,  covering  activity  in  various  county,  state 
and  federal  offices,  has  brought  Hector  C.  McRae  an  enviable  reputation  as  a 
capable  politician,  a farsighted  business  man  and  a public-spirited  and  progressive 
citizen.  He  first  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1868  and,  although  his  residence  here 
has  not  been  continuous,  it  has  covered  a period  of  many  years,  during  which  he 
has  been  a leading  force  in  progress  in  the  city.  Since  1912  he  has  been  serving 
as  immigration  agent  for  the  Canadian  government  and  in  this  office  is  doing  his 
usual  discriminating  and  capable  work. 

Mr.  McRae  was  born  in  Stormont  county,  Ontario,  March  21,  1837,  and  is 
a son  of  John  and  Ann  (Munroe)  McRae,  both  of  Scotch  extraction.  The  father 
was  born  in  Scotland  and  went  as  a pioneer  to  Ontario,  where  he  engaged  in 
farming  for  a number  of  years.  He  and  his  wife  have  passed  away  and  are 
buried  in  the  same  grave  on  the  Indian  lands  in  Glengarry  county. 

Hector  C.  McRae  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
province  and  in  a business  college  there,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of 
eighteen.  He  then  became  connected  with  mercantile  interests  as  a clerk  in  a 
general  store  and  held  this  position  until  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls.  Here  he 
entered  the  employ  of  Martin  & Swan,  general  merchants,  and  after  one  year 
bought  an  interest  in  the  concern,  the  name  being  then  changed  to  Swan  & McRae. 
Mr.  McRae  continued  as  a member  of  this  firm  until  1872,  when  he  sold  his 
interest  in  the  business  and  began  a career  in  the  public  service  which  has  brought 
him  well  deserved  honor  and  distinction.  He  was  elected  county  treasurer  and 
after  four  years’  capable  work  in  that  office  was  made  a member  of  the  state 
legislature,  serving  during  two  sessions  and  becoming  identified  during  that  time 
with  a great  deal  of  constructive  and  progressive  legislation.  In  1880  he  again 
turned  his  attention  to  business,  forming  a partnership  with  his  brother  John  in 
the  establishment  of  a mill  at  Chippewa  Falls.  They  erected  their  own  plant  and 
also  built  a dam  and  their  partnership  continued  for  some  time.  After  it  was 
dissolved  Mr.  McRae  of  this  review  carried  on  the  business  for  himself  for  two 


48 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


years  and  then  formed  another  partnership.  Later,  on  account  of  ill  health,  he 
sold  his  interest  to  a Mr.  Kennedy.  The  mill  is  still  in  existence  and  the  business 
is  carried  On  under  the  name  of  the  Consolidated  Milling,  Elevator  & Power 
Company. 

When  Mr.  McRae  disposed  of  his  interest  in  this  latter  concern  he  went  to 
Washington,  D.  C.,  and  there  entered  the  stationery  department  in  the  capitol, 
serving  as  clerk  there  for  twelve  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  returned  to 
Chippewa  Falls  and  in  1895  was  appointed  first  immigration  agent  for  the  Cana- 
dian government.  This  position  he  still  holds  and  each  year  of  his  service  has 
increased  his  efficiency  until  today  he  is  regarded  as  an  expert  in  such  matters 
as  come  under  his  jurisdiction. 

Mr.  McRae  has  been  twice  married.  He  wedded  first  Miss  Margaret  McKay, 
a daughter  of  Alexander  and  Mary  (Johnston)  McKay.  She  passed  away  leav- 
ing one  son,  John  A.,  who  resides  in  California.  Mr.  McRae  afterward  married 
Miss  Alice  Wiltse,  a daughter  of  Judge  Wiltse,  of  Chippewa  Falls. 

Mr.  McRae  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  has  served  as  elder. 
He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  lodge  and  is  a member  of  the 
Knights  of  Pythias.  His  political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  republican  party  and 
during  the  many  years  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls  he  has  been  among  the 
leaders  in  local  politics,  cooperating  heartily  in  all  measures  for  the  public  good 
and  proving  his  loyalty  and  public  spirit  in  active  official  service.  He  has  been 
mayor  of  the  city  and  during  his  term  of  office  accomplished  a great  deal  of 
important  work  looking  toward  municipal  advancement  and  progress.  His  has 
been  an  excellent  record  and  his  activities  as  an  official  and  as  a private  citizen 
have  been  among  the  most  important  forces  in  the  development  of  Chippewa 
Falls  since  early  times. 


LEONARD  TONNANCOUR. 

Leonard  Tonnancour,  an  enterprising,  progressive  and  successful  agriculturist, 
devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  the  operation  of  his  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
twenty  acres  on  section  1,  Cleveland  township,  and  in  this  connection  has  won  a 
well  merited  measure  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  Canada  on  the  28th  of 
August,  1870,  and  is  a son  of  Lactence  Tonnancour,  likewise  a native  of  that 
country,  and  a grandson  of  Leonard  Tonnancour,  whose  birth  occurred  in  France. 
When  a youth  of  seventeen  the  subject  of  this  review  crossed  the  border  into  the 
United  States  and,  being  obliged  to  earn  a livelihood,  accepted  any  employment 
that  offered  itself,  working  in  mills  and  on  the  river  in  Chippewa  county.  When 
he  had  accumulated  sufficient  capital  he  purchased  a tract  of  land  in  what  is  now 
Rusk  county  but  disposed  of  the  property  when  that  county  was  cut  off  from  Chip- 
pewa, and  in  1890  bought  one  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  sections  1,  2 and  12, 
Cleveland  township.  The  place  was  practically  unimproved,  but  he  began  its  culti- 
vation with  undaunted  energy  and  erected  thereon  a substantial  residence  and  good 
outbuildings.  In  1891  he  sold  twenty  acres  and  the  boundaries  of  his  farm  now 
include  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres.  The  property  is  well  improved  in  every 
particular,  indicating  the  supervision  of  a practical  and  progressive  owner. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


49 


In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Tonnancour  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Susan 
Diamond,  a native  of  this  county  and  a daughter  of  Benjamin  Diamond,  who 
was  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  here.  They  have  eight  living  children,  namely : 
Charles,  Percy,  Clarence,  Laura,  Lucy,  Elmer,  Victor  and  Hazel.  Two  others 
died  in  childhood. 

In  politics  Mr.  Tonnancour  is  a republican  and  his  services  have  been  sought 
by  his  fellow  townsmen  as  a public  official.  He  has  acted  in  the  capacity  of  town- 
ship clerk  for  nine  years  and  for  two  years  held  that  office  in  Rusk  county.  He 
has  likewise  served  as  township  treasurer  for  two  years  and  has  also  been  clerk 
of  the  school  board,  ever  discharging  his  public  duties  in  a commendable  and 
creditable  manner.  In  religious  belief  he  is  a Catholic.  He  is  well  known  as  a 
man  of  strict  honesty  and  integrity,  true  to  every  cause  he  has  ever  espoused,  and 
he  enjoys  in  a high  degree  the  respect  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


HENRY  L.  BROOKS. 

Since  1882  Henry  L.  Brooks  has  been  closely  connected  with  business  inter- 
ests of  Chippewa  Falls  as  a marble  and  granite  monument  manufacturer  and  is 
today  in  control  of  a large  and  important  enterprise  which  owes  its  foundation 
and  continued  prosperity  to  his  energy,  well  directed  labor  and  initiative  spirit.  He 
was  born  in  Worcester,  Massachusetts,  November  1,  1853,  and  is  a son  of  J.  O. 
and  Mary  J.  (Merriam)  Brooks,  the  former  a representative  of  a family  whose 
members  came  from  England  to  America  early  in  the  seventeenth  century.  The 
great-grandfather  of  the  subject  of  this  review,  Henry  W.  Gates,  fought  in  the 
Continental  army  during  the  Revolutionary  war  and  the  family  has  been  well 
known  in  different  parts  of  the  United  States  since  that  time.  J.  O.  Brooks  was 
for  many  years  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  monuments  but  is  now  living  re- 
tired, he  and  his  wife  making  their  home  at  No.  2482  Grand  avenue,  South  Min- 
neapolis. They  have  celebrated  their  golden  wedding  anniversary  and  upon  that 
occasion  were  surrounded  by  a large  gathering  of  their  children,  grandchildren  and 
great-grandchildren. 

Henry  L.  Brooks  acquired  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Sparta,  Wisconsin, 
attending  a normal  school  after  he  had  completed  his  high-school  course.  He  laid 
aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  twenty-two  years  and  for  a time  thereafter  en- 
gaged in  teaching,  becoming  principal  of  the  schools  at  Norwalk,  Wisconsin. 
During  this  time  he  also  engaged  in  the  marble  manufacturing  business  and  after 
coming  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1882  resumed  this  occupation,  starting  in  business 
on  a small  scale  as  a marble  and  granite  monument  manufacturer.  Success  rapidly 
followed  his  well  directed  and  untiring  labors  and  he  today  employs  four  men, 
specializing  in  carving  and  monumental  lettering.  The  name  of  the  firm  is  now 
IT.  L.  Brooks  & Son,  and  controls  a large  and  growing  trade. 

■ At  Norwalk,  Wisconsin,  on  the  28th  of  June,  1882,  Mr.  Brooks  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Mjss  Martha  Romanoski,  a daughter  of  August  and  Wilhelmina  Ro- 
manoski,  the  former  of  whom  was  for  many  years  in  the  retail  boot  and  shoe  busi- 
ness in  that  city.  He  now  resides  at  Camp  Douglas,  having  survived  his  wife, 
who  died  in  1893  at  Norwalk.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Brooks  have  four  children:  Walter 


50 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


H.,  associated  with  his  father  under  the  name  of  H.  L.  Brooks  & Son;  Bertram 
A.,  a rancher  in  Sheridan,  Wyoming;  Grace  H.,  the  wife  of  Joseph  Prueher,  an 
attorney  at  law  in  Bloomer,  Wisconsin  ; and  Mary,  a student  in  the  high  school. 

Mr.  Brooks  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  belongs  to  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church. 
During  the  thirty-one  years  he  has  lived  in  Chippewa  Falls  he  has  made  many  sub- 
stantial contributions  to  the  industrial  development  of  the  city  and  has  become 
widely  and  favorably  known,  his  ability  and  success  winning  him  respect  in  busi- 
ness circles  and  his  personal  qualities  commanding  the  esteem  and  confidence  of 
all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


EDWARD  C.  GEHRING. 

Edward  C.  Gehring  is  one  of  the  proprietors  of  the  Golden  Rule  Store,  being 
associated  in  this  enterprise  with  Fred  C.  Scheidecker.  He  was  born  seven  miles 
west  of  Bloomer,  his  natal  day  being  November  30,  1884.  The  family  name 
indicates  his  German  lineage.  His  father,  Jacob  Gehring,  was  a native  of  Ger- 
many, and  when  a young  man  crossed  the  broad  Atlantic  to  the  United  States, 
making  his  way  direct  to  Wisconsin,  where  he  followed  the  stonemason’s  trade 
for  a time.  Later  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  in  which  pursuit  he  is  still 
engaged.  He  married  Elizabeth  Meier,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  nine 
children.  Theirs  is  a notable  record,  for  the  family  circle  still  remains  unbroken 
by  the  hand  of  death. 

At  the  usual  age  Edward  C.  Gehring  entered  the  public  schools  and  mastered 
the  branches  of  learning  taught  therein,  dividing  his  time  between  the  duties  of 
the  schoolroom,  the  pleasures  of  the  playground  and  the  work  of  the  fields. 
For  several  years  after  leaving  school,  his  entire  attention  was  given  to  farm 
work  and  later  he  spent  ten  years  as  an  employe  in  the  Cutting  & Thompson 
store,  but  he  was  ambitious  to  engage  in  business  on  his  own  account  and  utilized 
his  opportunities  toward  that  end,  carefully  saving  his  earnings  until  his  capital 
was  sufficient  to  enable  him  to  become  a partner  with  Fred  C.  Scheidecker  in  the 
ownership  of  the  Golden  Rule  Store.  They  carry  a general  stock  and  business  is 
now  prospering. 

The  republican  party  finds  in  Mr.  Gehring  a stalwart  advocate.  He  is  ever 
loyal  to  the  cause  which  he  espouses  and  is  therefore  a faithful  member  of  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  of  the  Beavers  and  of  the  Methodist  church. 


FRED  C.  SCHEIDECKER. 

A history  of  Bloomer  would  be  incomplete  without  mention  of  Fred  C. 
Scheidecker,  of  the  Golden  Rule  Store,  of  which  he  is  one  of  the  proprietors. 
The  store  is  a leading  mercantile  establishment  of  the  town,  and  its  owners 
bear  an  enviable  reputation  as  enterprising  and  progressive  young  business  men. 
Mr.  Scheidecker  was  born  in  Bufifalo  county,  Wisconsin,  in  1876,  and  comes  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


51 


German  ancestry.  He  is  a son  of  Fred  Scheidecker,  a native  of  Germany,  who 
remained  in  the  fatherland  until  more  than  thirty  years  of  age,  when  he  bade 
adieu  to  friends  and  native  country,  and  sailed  for  the  United  States.  He  made 
his  way  direct  to  Wisconsin  and  now  resides  a half  mile  north  of  Bloomer. 
He  is  a mechanic  by  trade  but  has  been  connected  to  a considerable  extent  with 
agricultural  interests.  He  was  married  in  Germany  to  Miss  Wilhelmina  Ehring 
and  their  children  were  three  in  number. 

Spending  his  youthful  days  in  his  father’s  home,  Fred  C.  Scheidecker  was 
a pupil  in  the  schools  of  Bloomer  and  later  turned  his  attention  to  the  occupation  of 
farming,  with  which  work  he  was  connected  until  he  reached  the  age  of  eighteen 
years.  He  then  took  up  merchandising  and  on  the  14th  of  June,  1913,  estab- 
lished the  Golden  Rule  Store  at  Bloomer  in  partnersip  with  Edward  C.  Gehring. 
They  carry  a full  line  of  general  merchandise,  including  men’s  and  ladies’  furnish- 
ings, groceries,  shoes,  etc.  The  store  is  supplied  with  all  modern  equipments 
and  would  be  a credit  to  a place  much  larger  than  Bloomer. 

In  1900  Mr.  Scheidecker  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Emma  Andrews,  and 
they  have  become  the  parents  of  six  children:  Arthur,  Lucile,  Lillian  and  John, 
all  of  whom  are  in  school ; Edna  and  Elton,  at  home.  Mr.  Scheidecker  holds  mem- 
bership in  the  Beavers,  in  the  Woodmen  of  America  and  the  Independent  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows.  He  is  ever  loyal  to  the  allegiance  he  owes  to  these  organizations 
and  in  his  life  exemplifies  the  beneficent  spirit  upon  which  they  are  based. 


FRANK  G.  MARTIN. 

Frank  G.  Martin,  assistant  cashier  of  the  Lumberman’s  National  Bank,  is  a 
native  son  of  Chippewa  Falls,  born  December  25,  1873.  His  parents  were  L. 
F.  and  Julia  (Girard)  Martin,  the  former  of  whom  was  a pioneer  hardware  mer- 
chant in  this  city  and  very  active  in  local  democratic  politics.  For  four  years  he 
was  a member  of  the  senate,  representing  this  district,  and  during  President 
Cleveland’s  administration  did  capable  and  reliable  work  as  postmaster.  He 
died  in  1909,  at  the  age  of  sixty-six  years,  having  survived  his  wife  since  1891. 
Both  are  buried  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery. 

Frank  G.  Martin  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
Falls,  graduating  from  the  high  school  in  1891.  Immediately  afterward  he  en- 
tered the  employ  of  the  Lumbermen’s  National  Bank  and  he  has  been  continu- 
ously identified  with  this  institution  since  that  time.  He  has  advanced  steadily 
and  is  now  a stockholder  and  director  in  the  bank  and  holds  the  office  of  assistant 
cashier.  In  addition  to  this  he  is  vice  president  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Realty 
Company  and  his  ability  is  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 

On  the  25th  of  August,  1908,  Mr.  Martin  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Minta  Shook,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  R.  H.  Shook,  the  former  for  many  years 
a well  known  business  man  of  this  city.  He  and  his  wife  now  reside  at  Lafay- 
ette, Indiana.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Martin  are  well  known  in  social  circles  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  occupy  an  attractive  residence  at  No.  716  West  Columbia  street. 

Mr.  Martin  is  a thirty-second  degree  Mason  and  has  been  through  all  the 
chairs  in  the  local  lodge.  He  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  takes  an 


52 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


intelligent  interest  in  public  affairs  without  being  active  as  an  office  seeker.  His 
religious  views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and 
he  is  a man  of  high  worth  and  sterling  integrity,  widely  respected  and  honored 
in  a community  which  has  known  him  from  his  birth  to  the  present  time. 


AUGUST  HENNEKENS. 

August  Hennekens,  who  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  a quar- 
ter of  a century,  has  devoted  his  time  and  energies  to  general  agricultural  pur- 
suits and  is  owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  eighty  acres  on  section  13, 
Cleveland  township.  His  birth  occurred  in  Hanover,  Germany,  on  the  15th  of 
October,  1861,  his  parents  being  Johann  and  Sophia  Wilhelmina  (Vegel)  Hen- 
nekens, who  are  mentioned  at  greater  length  on  another  page  of  this  work  in 
connection  with  the  sketch  of  Fred  W.  Hennekens,  a brother  of  our  subject. 
In  1888,  when  a young  man  of  twenty-seven  years,  August  Hennekens  crossed 
the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States,  coming  direct  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin. 
He  worked  at  lumbering  for  one  year  and  then  acquired  forty  acres  of  unim- 
proved land,  which  he  cleared  and  has  since  cultivated.  The  buildings  on  the 
place  were  erected  by  him,  and  he  subsequently  extended  the  boundaries  of  his 
farm  by  an  additional  purchase  of  forty  acres,  so  that  it  now  comprises  eighty 
acres.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  his  efforts  in  this  connection  have  been 
attended  with  a gratifying  and  well  merited  measure  of  success. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Hennekens  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Wilhel- 
mina Martens,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  with  her 
brother.  They  have  three  children  : Mary  Sophia,  August  and  Wilhelmina.  The 
family  are  devout  communicants  of  the  Lutheran  church,  and  in  his  political 
views  Mr.  Hennekens  is  a republican.  Coming  to  the  new  world  in  search  of 
broader  opportunities,  he  has  worked  persistently  and  energetically  and  has  won 
and  maintained  a reputation  as  one  of  the  substantial  and  representative  agri- 
culturists of  his  community. 


JACOB  P.  MILLER. 

Prominent  among  the  successful  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls  is  Jacob  P. 
Miller,  who  since  1896  has  been  engaged  in  the  cigar  manufacturing  business. 
He  is  a native  of  this  city,  born  December  18,  1873,  and  is  a son  of  John  and 
Susanna  (Welter)  Miller,  both  of  German  extraction.  The  father  was  for  many 
years  well  known  in  business  circles  of  Chippewa  Falls,  he  and  Jacob  Leinen- 
kugel  having  founded  the  Leinenkugel  & Miller  Brewery,  which  is  now  operated 
under  the  name  of  the  Jacob  Leinenkugel  Brewing  Company.  John  Miller  passed 
away  August  13,  1906,  at  the  age  of  sixty-nine,  having  survived  his  wife  since 
1883.  Both  are  buried  in  the  family  lot  in  the  Catholic  cemetery  at  Chippewa 
Falls. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


53 


Jacob  P.  Miller  acquired  his  education  in  the  Notre  Dame  parochial  school 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  Immediately  afterward  he 
began  to  learn  cigarmaking  and,  having  mastered  the  details  of  this  occupation, 
established  a factory  of  his  own  at  No.  513  North  Bridge  street.  Here  he  has 
engaged  in  business  since  1896  and  he  controls  today  a large  and  representative 
trade,  for  he  is  an  expert  in  his  chosen  line  of  work  and  adheres  always  to  high 
and  honorable  business  methods. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  21st  of  February,  1905,  Mr.  Miller  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Frieda  Burkhardt,  a daughter  of  Christian  and  Caroline  Burk- 
hardt,  the  former  at  one  time  a well  known  farmer  of  Taylor  county.  The  parents 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  at  Thorp,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Miller 
have  one  daughter,  Caroline.  Mr.  Miller  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic 
church  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  views.  He  is  a man  of  unquestioned 
integrity  and  commercial  honor,  who  enjoys  in  the  highest  measure  the  respect 
of  all  who  know  him.  That  many  of  his  stanchest  friends  are  numbered  among 
those  who  have  known  him  from  boyhood  to  the  present  time  is  an  indication 
that  his  has  been  an  honorable  and  upright  life  and  that  he  is  well  worthy  of  the 
esteem  in  which  he  is  uniformly  held. 


DAFE  CHARE ES  HICKOK. 


Dale  Charles  Hickok,  well  known  in  journalistic  circles  in  Chippewa  county 
as  publisher  of  the  Cadott  Blade,  was  born  in  Clintonville,  Waupaca  county,  Wis- 
consin, January  27,  1888,  the  youngest  son  of  John  A.  and  Almeda  J.  (Davis) 
Hickok.  John  A.  Hickok  was  born  in  Cato,  Manitowoc  county,  this  state, 
December  18,  1846,  and  on  the  21st  of  April,  1873,  married  Miss  Almeda  Davis, 
whose  birth  occurred  in  Omro,  Wisconsin,  October  7,  1845.  The  father  was 
telegrapher  by  profession,  following  this  occupation  for  many  years.  He  and  his 
wife  now  reside  at  Shawano,  Wisconsin. 

Dale  Charles  Hickok  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Waupaca 
county  and  afterward  attended  school  in  Clintonville  for  three  years.  Laying 
aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  he  moved  north  with  his  parents  and  there 
gained  a great  deal  of  practical  and  beneficial  knowledge  regarding  outdoor  life, 
taking  a keen  delight  in  hunting,  fishing  and  trapping.  During  his  school  career 
he  was  a member  of  the  football,  baseball,  basketball  and  track  teams,  competing 
in  the  distance  runs,  and  this  interest  in  athletics  he  has  carried  forward  into 
later  life.  Linder  the  direction  of  an  older  brother,  Mr.  Hickok  studied  telegraphy 
and  he  followed  this  occupation  at  intervals  for  three  years.  In  1908  he  held  a 
position  as  time-keeper  on  the  construction  of  grade,  of  the  Wisconsin  and  North- 
ern Railroad,  this  line  being  built  through  the  virgin  forests  of  the  Menominee 
Indian  Reservation.  In  the  fall  of  1912  he  embarked  in  the  newspaper  business 
as  associate  editor  of  the  Cadott  Blade  and  on  the  1st  of  March,  1913,  he  accepted 
the  management  of  this  paper,  which  he  still  publishes.  In  addition  to  this  he 
is  the  proprietor  of  a moving  picture  theater,  which  is  the  only  place  of  amuse- 
ment in  Cadott. 


54 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  his  early  days  Mr.  ITickok  attained  considerable  reputation  as  an  orator. 
He  was  deeply  interested  in  the  oratorical  contests  of  his  high  school,  and  repre- 
sented it  in  the  district  oratorical  contest  held  at  Appleton  in  1905.  He  was  also 
a member  of  the  Clintonville  High  School  Interscholastic  Debating  Team  in  the 
same  year. 

He  is  a member  of  the  Order  of  Owls  and  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs. 
He  is  well  and  favorably  known  in  Cadott,  holding  the  esteem  and  confidence  of 
all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


JAMES  M.  DODMEAD. 

James  M.  Dodmead  devotes  his  energies  to  tilling  the  soil,  stock-raising  and 
to  the  conduct  of  a dairy  business.  His  farm  lies  on  section  36,  Wheaton  town- 
ship, and  comprises  three  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  which  under  his  able  man- 
agement have  become  very  productive.  Mr.  Dodmead  was  born  at  North  Prairie, 
Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  July  4,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  Matthew  and  Sarah 
(Garside)  Dodmead,  the  former  of  whom  died  in  1881  and  is  buried  in  Genesee, 
Wisconsin.  His  wife  survives  at  the  age  of  eighty  years  and  makes  her  home 
with  the  subject  of  this  review.  Both  parents  were  natives  of  England,  the  father 
coming  to  Wisconsin  at  an  early  day  in  the  history  of  this  state.  By  trade  he  was 
a bricklayer  and  plasterer.  He  located  in  Milwaukee  and  there  worked  at  his 
trade,  assisting  in  the  building  of  some  of  the  foremost  edifices,  among  which 
may  be  named  the  cathedral.  Later  he  removed  to  Waukesha  county,  continuing 
along  building  lines,  but  also  engaging  to  some  extent  in  farming. 

James  M.  Dodmead  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
county  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  After  leaving  school 
he  assisted  his  father  on  the  farm  for  about  two  years  and  then  accepted  employ- 
ment with  the  Chicago,  Milwaukee  & St.  Paul  Railroad  as  an  apprentice  in  the 
shops.  Three  years  later  he  turned  his  attention  to  surveying,  which  occupation 
he  followed  for  one  year  and  then  became  a fireman  on  the  Wisconsin  Central 
Railroad,  now  known  as  the  Soo  Line.  This  position  he  held  for  four  and  a half 
years,  after  which  he  was  engaged  as  engineer  for  twelve  years.  During  that 
time  he  acquired  by  purchase  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  sections  10 
and  15  in  Wheaton  township.  At  the  end  of  the  twelve  years  he  came  to  this 
farm,  giving  his  entire  attention  to  its  cultivation,  and  he  has  since  continued 
along  agricultural  lines.  In  1906  Mr.  Dodmead  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  in  addition  to  his  other  holdings,  which  makes  a complex  of  three  hundred 
and  twenty  acres.  He  is  today  classed  among  the  representative  agriculturists 
of  this  vicinity.  In  addition  to  general  farming  he  engages  in  stock-raising, 
keeping  about  forty  head  of  cattle  and  making  a specialty  of  Guernseys.  He  also 
keeps  an  average  of  thirty  hogs  and  ten  horses  and  has  some  fine  pedigreed  stock. 
He  gives  considerable  attention  to  dairying,  along  which  line  he  is  particularly 
successful. 

On  November  29,  1889,  in  North  Prairie,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Dodmead  was  mar- 
ried to  Miss  Mary  Carlin,  a daughter  of  John  and  Anne  (James)  Carlin,  both 
of  whom  have  passed  away.  The  mother  died  in  1900,  at  the  age  of  seventy- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


55 


three  years,  and  was  survived  by  her  husband  for  four  years,  his  death  occurring 
when  he  was  eightv-four.  They  are  buried  in  Waukesha  county.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Dodmead  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children,  Jay,  Estella,  Ruth,  Elmer  and 
Esther.  It  is  interesting  to  note  that  both  parents  of  these  children  were  born  and 
reared  in  the  same  locality,  attended  the  same  public  and  Sunday  schools  and 
were  sweethearts  from  childhood. 

Mr.  Dodmead  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  been  active  in 
local  affairs,  having  held  the  office  of  town  treasurer  for  nine  years  and  having 
been  a member  of  the  school  board  for  twelve  years.  Beside  his  extensive  farm 
he  is  interested  in  other  affairs,  serving  at  present  as  president  of  the  Wisconsin 
Telephone  Company  and  being  a stockholder  in  the  Wisconsin  National  Life  Insur- 
ance Company  and  the  Farmers  Cooperative  Produce  Company  of  Eau  Claire, 
Wisconsin.  Fraternally  he  is  connected  with  the  Masonic  lodge,  the  Knights  of 
Pythias,  the  Brotherhood  of  Locomotive  Engineers  and  the  Modern  Woodmen 
of  America.  He  is  well  known  in  Chippewa  and  adjacent  counties  as  a man  of 
tried  integrity  and  worth,  and  he  and  his  family  stand  high  in  the  estimation  of 
the  community. 


HENRY  J.  MISFELDT. 

Henry  J.  Misfeldt,  since  1892  prominently  connected  with  industrial  interests 
of  Chippewa  Falls  as  a member  of  the  firm  of  Felber  & Misfeldt,  carriage  and 
wagon  manufacturers,  has  been  a resident  of  this  county  since  1869  but  is  a 
native  of  Germany,  born  near  Kiel,  September  7,  1864.  He  is  a son  of  John  and 
Emily  Misfeldt,  who  came  to  America  in  1869  and  settled  in  Chippewa  county, 
where  the  father  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  and  also  worked  in  the  lumber 
woods.  He  was  for  a number  of  years  connected  with  the  Union  Lumber  Com- 
pany in  their  store  and  warehouse  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  is  now  carrying  on  a 
general  mercantile  business  in  this  city.  Pie  has  taken  an  active  interest  in  edu- 
cational affairs  and  has  done  a great  deal  of  constructive  and  able  work  along  this 
line.  He  has  long  survived  his  wife,  who  died  in  1872  and  is  buried  in  Chippewa 
Falls. 

Henry  J.  Misfeldt  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this  city 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen  years  in  order  to  begin  learning  the 
carriage  and  wagon  manufacturing  business.  Having  mastered  this  trade,  he 
formed  a partnership  with  R.  E.  Felber  and  in  1892  they  organized  the  firm  of 
Felber  & Misfeldt,  carriage  and  wagon  manufacturers.  They  have  a fine  modern 
plant  at  No.  1 Bridge  street  and  since  the  business  was  established  it  has  expanded 
rapidly  year  by  year,  Mr.  Misfeldt’s  energy,  ability  and  power  of  organization 
being  helpful  factors  in  its  growth. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  March  11,  1890,  Mr.  Misfeldt  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Martha  Wenzel,  a native  of  Germany,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  three  daughters:  Emma,  the  wife  of  John  Rheingans,  manager  of  the  elevator 
operated  by  the  Farmers  Produce  Company  of  Eagle  Point ; Erna,  residing  at 
home ; and  Florence,  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  Fails  high  school.  The  family 
occupy  a comfortable  residence  at  106  State  street  and  are  well  known  in  social 


56 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


circles  of  the  city.  Mr.  Misfeldt  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church 
and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs,  serving  at  the  present  time  as  a member 
of  the  board  of  aldermen.  His  personal  characteristics  have  gained  for  him  the 
high  regard  and  friendship  of  many,  while  along  business  lines  he  has  attained 
that  success  which  comes  only  as  the  result  of  ability  and  industry. 


REV.  JOSEPH  FRECENON. 

Rev.  Joseph  Frecenon,  pastor  of  Holy  Ghost  church,  Chippewa  Falls,  was 
born  on  the  island  of  Martinique,  in  the  West  Indies,  July  27,  1851,  and  is  a son 
of  Charles  and  Josephine  Frecenon,  both  French  origin  and  the  former  for  many 
years  a well  known  general  merchant  in  Martinique.  The  parents  have  both 
passed  away  and  are  buried  in  the  family  cemetery  at  Samentin. 

Rev.  Joseph  Frecenon  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools 
of  Martinique,  completing  it  in  Ploermel  (Britain)  France,  where  he  took  his 
philosophical  course.  He  began  his  first  year  of  theology  at  St.  Pierre,  the  town 
destroyed  by  Mont  Pelee.  He  was  ordained  at  Paris  to  the  Catholic  priesthood 
on  the  28th  of  October,  1874,  by  the  Bishop  De  Margueries  of  Autun  and  after 
spending  one  year  at  Cellule,  where  he  was  connected  as  professor  with  a college, 
was  sent  to  St.  Pierre,  Miquelon,  in  the  vicinity  of  Newfoundland,  where  he 
remained  for  sixteen  years  as  teacher  superior  of  an  educational  institution,  doing 
also  a great  deal  of  mission  work.  Father  Frecenon  afterward  went  to  Beauvais, 
France,  as  professor  and  chaplain  of  the  Agricultural  Institute  there  and  from 
that  city  was  sent  to  Detroit,  Michigan,  where  he  acted  as  assistant  pastor  for 
nine  years.  From  Detroit  he  was  transferred  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  he  has  since 
been  pastor  of  the  Holy  Ghost  church  here,  accomplishing  a great  deal  of  earnest 
and  consecrated  work  among  the  people  of  his  parish  and  proving  at  all  times  zeal- 
ous in  the  discharge  of  his  duties  and  able  and  farsighted  in  his  administration  of 
the  church  property  under  his  charge.  In  order  to  help  his  poor  church  he  com- 
posed a book  which  has  been  approved  by  the  highest  authorities  of  the  Catholic 
church  in  America.  He  holds  in  a large  measure  the  love  of  his  parishioners  and 
has  the  esteem  and  respect  of  people  of  all  denominations,  for  his  upright  and 
honorable  life  is  in  entire  accord  with  the  doctrines  and  principles  which  he 
professes. 


C.  SUNDET. 

C.  Sundet,  well  known  as  one  of  the  leading  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
where  since  1890  he  has  been  connected  with  mercantile  interests  as  the  proprie- 
tor of  a large  and  profitable  music  store,  was  born  at  Eker,  Norway,  June  28, 
1863.  His  parents  were  Ole  and  Martha  Sundet,  both  of  whom  were  born  in 
Eker  and  both  of  whom  have  passed  away. 

C.  Sundet  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country 
and  in  the  public  schools  and  business  college  at  Chippewa  Falls,  whither  he  came 


REV.  JOSEPH  FRECENON 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


59 


in  1883,  when  he  was  twenty  years  of  age.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  worked 
in  a sawmill  and  was  later  cook  in  a lumber  camp,  spending  three  years  in  this 
latter  occupation.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  secured  a position  as  a sewing 
machine  agent  and  after  four  years  established  himself  in  the  sewing  machine 
business,  conducting  a profitable  enterprise  of  this  character  in  Chippewa  Falls 
until  1890,  when  he  turned  his  attention  to  his  present  field.  He  erected  the 
music  block  at  No.  318  Bridge  street  and  here  has  a well  stocked  music  store, 
which  under  his  able  management  has  become  one  of  the  leading  concerns  of  its 
kind  in  the  city.  Mr.  Sundet  deals  in  pianos,  organs  and  other  musical  instru- 
ments and  in  sheet  music  and  controls  an  important  and  growing  patronage,  which 
has  been  accorded  to  him  in  recognition  of  his  well  selected  line  of  goods  and  his 
upright  and  honorable  business  methods. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  16th  of  September,  1889,  Mr.  Sundet  married  Miss 
Helena  Bakke,  a daughter  of  Erick  Bakke,  deceased,  formerly  a farmer  in  Tay- 
lor county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sundet  have  two  children:  Margaret,  who  was  for- 
merly a student  at  Lawrence  University  and  who  now  attends  the  State  University 
at  Madison;  and  Mabel,  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school. 

Mr.  Sundet  is  a trustee  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  he  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Fraternally  he  is  connected  with  the 
Masonic  lodge,  the  Sons  of  Norway  and  is  a charter  member  of  the  Woodmen  of 
the  World.  He  gives  most  of  his  time  to  the  conduct  of  his  business  interests 
and  in  this  field  has  met  with  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success,  being  now 
regarded  as  one  of  the  most  substantial  as  well  as  one  of  the  most  progressive 
and  reliable  business  men  of  the  city. 


ERNEST  LEEGE. 

Ernest  Leege,  owning  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section 
33,  Wheaton  township,  is  classed  with  the  men  who  have  in  the  past  quarter  of 
a century  made  substantial  contributions  to  the  agricultural  development  of  Chip- 
pewa county.  He  was  born  April  4,  1867,  in  Germany  and  is  a son  of  Mitchell 
and  Pauline  (Nonnanpradigan)  Leege,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are 
buried  in  the  fatherland. 

Ernest  Leege  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany,  laying 
aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  in  order  to  secure  employment  as  a farm 
laborer.  He  continued  thus  in  his  native  country  for  six  years  and  then,  in  1887, 
emigrated  to  America,  locating  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  resumed  his  former 
employment.  He  worked  at  farming  in  the  employ  of  others  for  five  years  and 
during  that  time  saved  his  money,  finally  accumulating  enough  to  purchase  land. 
He  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  33,  Wheaton  township,  and  of 
this  he  has  forty-five  acres  under  cultivation,  specializing  in  the  raising  of  grain. 
His  methods  have  always  been  practical  and,  therefore,  productive  of  excellent 
results  and  his  success  places  him  among  the  prosperous  and  substantial  agricul- 
turists of  his  locality. 

Mr.  Leege  has  been  twice  married.  In  Chippewa  county,  on  the  28th  of  Sep- 
tember, 1893,  he  wedded  Miss  Francisco  Slacroski,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 

V ol.  II — 4 


60 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Antonio  Slacroski.  To  this  union  were  born  four  children,  William,  John,  Amanda 
and  Arthur.  Mr.  Leege’s  first  wife  died  June  15,  1912,  and  on  the  20th  of  March 
of  the  following  year  he  married  Mrs.  Philomena  (Hidemann)  Sandman,  a daugh- 
ter of  August  and  Philomena  (Kouzenbaugh)  Hidemann,  who  have  passed  away 
and  are  buried  in  Minnesota. 

Mr.  Leege  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  a democrat  in  his  polit- 
ical beliefs.  He  has,  however,  never  been  active  in  public  affairs,  preferring  to 
concentrate  his  attention  upon  his  agricultural  interests,  which  are  ably  conducted 
and  have  brought  him  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 


ROBERT  L.  ZIMMERMAN. 

Robert  L.  Zimmerman,  assistant  cashier  of  the  Holcombe  Bank  at  Holcombe, 
Wisconsin,  was  appointed  to  his  present  position  in  1907,  and  in  that  connection 
has  rendered  satisfactory  service  that  has  contributed  to  the  success  of  the  bank 
and  placed  him  among  the  enterprising  business  men  of  the  town.  Chippewa 
county  numbers  him  among  her  native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Chippewa 
Falls,  April  3,  1887,  his  parents  being  Frank  and  Effie  (Boutelle)  Zimmerman. 
The  father  is  a flour  and  feed  merchant  of  Cadott,  Wisconsin.  The  family  is  of 
German  origin  that  has  long  been  represented  in  this  country. 

Robert  L.  Zimmerman  acquired  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Cadott  and  was 
graduated  from  the  high  school  with  the  class  of  1904.  He  then  began  work  on  a 
farm  near  Holcombe  and  was  also  employed  for  a time  in  a store,  thus  beginning 
a business  experience  which  well  prepared  him  for  his  present  duties.  He  entered 
the  bank  in  1907  in  the  capacity  of  assistant  cashier,  which  position  he  has  held 
ever  since,  making  a creditable  record  in  that  connection.  He  is  also  interested  in 
the  real-estate  business  and  has  negotiated  several  important  real-estate  deals. 

In  politics  Mr.  Zimmerman  is  independent,  supporting  men  and  measures 
rather  than  party.  He  is  well  known  in  local  fraternal  circles,  having  taken  the 
royal  arch  degree  in  Masonry,  while  he  is  also  a loyal  representative  of  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  He  is  a young  man  whose  life’s  record  covers  a 
little  more  than  a quarter  of  a century,  but  already  he  has  gained  a position  which 
many  an  older  citizen  might  well  envy.  Mr.  Zimmerman  was  married  July  15, 
1913,  to  Caddie  M.  Runkel,  of  Cornell,  Wisconsin. 


ALEXANDER  R.  McDONALD,  M.  D. 

Dr.  Alexander  R.  McDonald,  a well  known  and  successful  representative  of 
the  medical  fraternity  in  Chippewa  county,  has  been  continuously  engaged  in  prac- 
tice as  a physician  and  surgeon  of  Boyd  for  the  past  three  decades.  His  birth 
occurred  on  a plantation  on  the  Trinity  river,  Trinity  county,  Texas,  on  the  10th 
of  September,  1851,  his  parents  being  Alexander  and  Margaret  (Roberts)  Mc- 
Donald, the  former  a native  of  Stony  Point,  Glengarry  county,  Ontario,  Canada, 
and  the  latter  of  Texas.  Alexander  McDonald,  Sr.,  held  the  rank  of  colonel  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


61 


the  old  Texas  Rangers  and  was  also  prominent  in  public  life,  serving  as  a member 
of  the  state  legislature  which  met  at  Austin,  Texas.  He  was  one  who  was  in- 
strumental in  the  location  of  the  state  penitentiary  at  Huntsville,  Texas.  His 
demise  was  most  untimely,  for  he  died  of  cholera  at  Houston,  Texas,  in  1851,  when 
our  subject  was  still  but  an  infant.  His  wife,  whose  natal  year  was  1820,  passed 
away  in  1892,  at  the  age  of  seventy-two.  They  were  the  parents  of  three  children, 
as  follows:  James,  who  served  as  a Confederate  soldier  in  the  Civil  war  and  died 

in  Arkansas  during  the  conflict;  Ranald,  a landowner  of  Trinity,  Texas,  who 
wedded  Mollie  Turner  and  has  five  children ; and  Alexander  R.,  of  this  review. 

The  last  named  obtained  his  early  education  in  the  common  schools  of  Hunts- 
ville, Texas,  and  in  1866  went  to  Canada,  where  he  continued  his  studies.  In  order 
to  prepare  himself  for  a professional  career  he  entered  the  medical  department  of 
McGill  University  where  he  was  a student  for  three  years.  Owing  to  impaired 
health  he  went  west  in  the  fall  of  1875  and  on  his  return  again  entered  McGill 
where  he  was  graduated  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.,  C.  M.  in  1882.  Coming  to 
Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  in  the  spring  of  1875  he  opened  an  office  in  the 
village  of  Boyd  and  has  there  remained  to  the  present  time,  having  built  up  a 
large  and  lucrative  practice.  He  was  the  first  physician  to  locate  between  Chip- 
pewa Falls  and  Abbotsford  and  has  gained  and  maintained  an  enviable  reputa- 
tion as  a skilled  and  able  representative  of  the  profession  in  this  part  of  the 
state.  As  a member  of  the  Chippewa  County  Medical  Society  and  the  American 
Medical  Association  he  keeps  in  close  touch  with  the  progress  that  is  being  contin- 
ually made  by  the  fraternity.  He  owns  an  attractive  and  commodious  residence 
in  Boyd  and  also  has  other  property  holdings. 

In  Minneapolis,  Minnesota,  on  the  9th  of  June,  1897,  Dr.  McDonald  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Lydia  May  McCallum,  her  parents  being  Archie  and  Priscilla 
(Eastman)  McCallum,  the  former  a woodsman  of  Minneapolis.  Dr.  McDonald 
is  a democrat  in  his  political  views  and  has  served  as  a member  of  the  school  board 
for  two  years.  Pie  finds  recreation  and  pleasure  in  hunting  and  fishing  and  is  an 
adept  with  both  the  rod  and  gun.  His  professional  labor  is  regarded  as  of  value 
by  the  general  community  and  he  enjoys  the  respect  of  his  brethren  of  the  medical 
fraternity  by  reason  of  his  strict  conformity  to  a high  standard  of  professional 
ethics. 


RAYMOND  L.  CLEAVES. 


Raymond  L.  Cleaves  is  a partner  in  the  firm  of  A.  J.  Edminster  & Company, 
conducting  a general  business  at  Holcombe  and  at  Cornell.  He  has  been  inter- 
ested in  that  undertaking  since  1911  and  now  bends  his  entire  energies  to  the 
successful  direction  and  development  of  that  enterprise.  He  was  born  in  Chip- 
pewa county  on  the  17th  of  October,  1882,  his  birthplace  being  Eagle  Point.  His 
parents  are  Eugene  A.  and  Jennie  (Shipman)  Cleaves.  The  former  is  a hotel 
proprietor  at  Kuna,  Idaho,  and  the  family  is  an  old  one  in  America. 


62 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Raymond  L.  Cleaves  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  and  in  the 
normal  school  at  River  Falls,  Wisconsin,  where  he  pursued  his  studies  until  he 
reached  the  age  of  eighteen  years.  Thinking  it  time  that  he  became  a factor  in 
business  circles  and  provide  for  his  own  support,  he  spent  the  succeeding  two 
years  at  farm  labor  and  then  entered  the  employ  of  the  Omaha  Railroad  in  the 
engineering  department,  with  which  he  was  connected  for  two  years.  On  the 
expiration  of  that  period  he  entered  the  employ  of  A.  J.  Edminster  in  the  capacity 
of  clerk  in  his  general  store  and  so  served  until  he  was  admitted  to  partnership, 
his  business  advancement  coming  to  him  in  recognition  of  his  merit,  capability 
and  faithfulness.  The  firm  of  A.  J.  Edminster  & Company  own  and  control 
stores  at  Holcombe  and  Cornell  and  the  business  is  enjoying  a substantial  growth. 

Mr.  Cleaves  was  united  in  marriage,  at  Packwaukee,  Wisconsin,  on  the  5th 
of  June,  1907,  to  Miss  Frances  Kendall,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Charles 
Kendall,  residents  of  Packwaukee,  where  the  father  is  well  known  as  a capitalist. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cleaves  now  have  one  child,  a daughter,  Geraldine. 

Mr.  Cleaves  is  a chapter  Mason,  loyal  to  the  teachings  of  the  craft,  and  he 
also  belongs  to  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  to  the  Modern  Wood- 
men of  America.  His  political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  republican  party  and 
he  firmly  adheres  to  its  principles,  yet  he  does  not  seek  nor  desire  public  office, 
preferring  to  concentrate  his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs,  in  which  con- 
nection he  is  making  progress,  having  already  gained  for  himself  a place  among 
the  enterprising  young  business  men  of  the  county. 


GEORGE  ALD WORTH. 

George  Aldworth  owns  and  operates  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
on  section  12,  Wheaton  township,  and  since  1872  has  been  closely  connected  with 
agricultural  interests  of  Chippewa  county.  He  was  born  in  Platte  county,  Mis- 
souri, and  is  a son  of  William  and  Susan  (Harris)  Aldworth,  both  of  whom 
have  passed  away,  the  father  dying  in  1891  and  the  mother  in  1883.  They  are 
buried  in  Huron  county,  Ontario,  Canada. 

George  Aldworth  was  still  a child  when  his  parents  moved  to  Huron  county 
and  he  there  acquired  his  education.  He  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of 
sixteen  years  and  thereafter  worked  in  the  lumber  woods  of  Ontario  and  Michigan 
for  about  twenty-seven  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa 
county  and  here  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  buying  the  property  which  he 
now  operates.  Upon  this  he  has  made  substantial  improvements,  erecting  a 
comfortable  residence,  good  barns  and  outbuildings,  and  installing  the  necessary 
machinery  to  facilitate  the  work  of  the  fields.  He  specializes  in  the  raising  of 
grain  and  because  he  has  always  followed  practical  methods  has  met  with  gratify- 
ing success,  standing  today  in  the  front  ranks  of  progressive  agriculturists  of  this 
vicinity. 

Mr.  Aldworth  married,  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  on  November  15,  1881,  Miss 
Mary  E.  Stone,  a daughter  of  David  and  Sarah  (Gunningham)  Stone,  the  former 
a veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  Both  have  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Aldworth 
have  four  children:  David  D.  and  Fred  S.,  who  are  assisting  their  father;  R. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


63 


Earl,  a motorman  on  the  Chippewa  Valley  Electric  Railway,  Light  & Power  Com- 
pany; and  Gertrude,  who  lives  at  home. 

Mr.  Aldworth  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  interested  in  public 
affairs,  although  not  active  as  an  office  seeker.  He  is  a progressive  business  man, 
a practical  farmer  and  a loyal  citizen  and  throughout  the  period  of  his  residence 
here  has  gained  a high  place  in  the  respect  and  esteem  of  his  neighbors  and 
friends. 


H.  L.  TINKER. 

H.  L.  Tinker  has  been  agent  for  the  Chicago,  St.  Paul,  Minneapolis  & Omaha 
Railway  at  Holcombe  since  April,  1906,  coming  at  that  date  to  Chippewa  county. 
He  was  born  at  Westfield,  Massachusetts,  on  the  20th  of  November,  1875,  an(l  is 
a son  of  Edwin  P.  and  Isabelle  (Osborn)  Tinker.  The  family  is  of  English 
lineage,  but  representatives  of  the  name  have  lived  in  America  since  the  Mayflower 
brought  passengers  to  the  new  world  in  the  early  Colonial  period.  The  father 
was  a bookkeeper,  which  profession  he  followed  in  various  places  in  Massa- 
chusetts. He  died  in  1895,  having  for  about  fifteen  years  survived  his  wife,  who 
passed  away  in  April,  1880,  their  remains  being  interred  in  the  cemetery  at  West- 
field,  Massachusetts. 

Spending  his  youthful  days  in  the  state  of  his  nativity,  H.  L.  Tinker,  pur- 
sued his  education  in  the  schools  of  Huntington,  Holyoke  and  Springfield,  Massa- 
chusetts, and  later  attended  the  Mt.  Hermon  Academy,  in  which  he  remained 
a student  until  eighteen  years  of  age.  He  then  entered  the  employ  of  the  Spring- 
field  National  Bank  in  the  capacity  of  bookkeeper  and  occupied  that  position  for 
three  years;  but  the  opportunities  of  the  middle  west  attracted  him  and  in  1897  he 
made  his  way  to  River  Falls,  Wisconsin,  where  he  became  an  employe  of  the 
Chicago,  St.  Paul,  Minneapolis  & Omaha  Railroad  in  the  capacity  of  telegraph 
operator.  He  occupied  that  position  until  after  the  outbreak  of  the  Spanish- 
American  war,  when  he  offered  his  services  to  the  government,  enlisting  at  Hud- 
son, Wisconsin,  as  a member  of  Company  C,  Third  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry. 
He  served  with  that  command  throughout  the  campaign  in  Porto  Rico,  and  after 
the  war  returned  to  Wisconsin  in  1899  and  reentered  the  employ  of  the  railway 
company,  occupying  the  position  of  agent  in  various  places  in  Iowa,  Minnesota 
and  Wisconsin.  He  eventually  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1906  and  has  since 
been  agent  at  Holcombe.  He  has  met  with  a substantial  measure  of  success  as 
the  years  have  gone  by,  and  the  visible  evidence  of  his  prosperity  is  his  real- 
estate  holdings,  which  include  his  own  residence,  two  other  houses,  and  still 
other  property  in  Holcombe  and  different  places.  His  judgment  is  sound  in 
matters  of  business  and  is  shown  by  his  judicious  investments. 

On  the  14th  of  June,  1900,  Mr.  Tinker  was  united  in  marriage  at  River 
Falls  to  Miss  Mary  A.  Deans,  a daughter  of  J.  T.  and  Mary  (Freeman)  Deans, 
who  were  among  the  pioneer  settlers  of  Pierce  county,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Tinker  now  have  two  children  William  I.,  who  is  attending  the  Holcombe  school; 
and  Lola  L,  who  is  also  pursuing  her  education.  Fraternally  Mr.  Tinker  is 
a Mason,  an  Odd  Fellow  and  a member  of  the  Order  of  Railway  Telegraphers. 


64 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  politics  he  is  a republican  and  for  one  year  has  served  as  town  clerk  of  Hol- 
combe. He  always  keeps  well  informed  on  the  questions  and  issues  of  the 
day  and  is  interested  in  any  measure  or  movement  that  tends  to  benefit  and 
promote  the  substantial  interests  of  the  community  in  which  he  lives. 


ARTHUR  FORD. 

Arthur  Ford,  who  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  for  more  than  a half 
century  and  is  therefore  one  of  its  pioneer  settlers,  has  won  success  in  the 
pursuits  of  farming  and  dairying  and  now  lives  upon  and  owns  a tract  of  eighty 
acres  on  section  19,  Anson  township.  His  birth  occurred  at  Chedder,  Somer- 
setshire, England,  on  the  30th  of  August,  1843,  his  parents  being  Thomas  and 
Maria  Ford,  who  emigrated  to  the  United  States  and  settled  in  Rochester,  New 
York,  in  1846.  The  father,  who  followed  farming  and  gardening  throughout 
his  active  business  career,  there  passed  away  in  1903,  when  eighty  years  of  age. 
Both  he  and  his  wife,  who  preceded  him  in  death,  lie  buried  in  the  Hooker 
cemetery  near  Rochester,  New  York. 

Arthur  Ford  attended  school  in  Rochester  until  eighteen  years  of  age  and 
then  made  his  way  to  Ganes  Station,  Michigan,  where  he  was  employed  in  a 
stave  factory  for  six  months.  In  May,  1862,  he  came  to  Anson  township,  Chip- 
pewa county,  Wisconsin,  and  was  here  employed  in  a sawmill  for  eight  years. 
On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  purchased  three  hundred  acres  of  land, 
onlv  eight  acres  of  which  had  been  broken.  By  dint  of  untiring  industry  and 
perseverance  he  eventually  prepared  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  the  land 
for  cultivation  and  continued  farming  thereon  for  twenty-four  years.  At  the 
end  of  that  time  he  bought  an  improved  farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section  19, 
Anson  township,  where  he  has  remained  continuously  since,  following  mixed 
farming  and  dairying  with  good  success.  He  has  made  a number  of  substantial 
improvements  on  the  property  and  his  place  presents  a most  pleasing  appear- 
ance. Mr.  Ford  found  only  a few  farmers  at  the  time  of  his  arrival  here,  but 
there  were  plenty  of  Indians.  During  the  half  century  which  has  since  come 
and  gone  he  has  witnessed  many  changes  as  pioneer  conditions  have  given  way 
before  the  onward  march  of  civilization. 

On  the  2d  of  November,  1864,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Ford  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Susan  Hamilton,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thomas  Hamil- 
ton, both  of  whom  died  of  cholera  in  Chicago.  The  children  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Ford  are  seven  in  number,  namely:  Thomas  A.,  who  is  a resident  of  Tilden ; 
Albert,  an  agriculturist  of  this  county ; George,  a farmer  residing  at  Clare,  Michi- 
gan;'Olive,  who  is  the  wife  of  Fred  Brooks,  of  North  Yakima,  Washington; 
Edward,  a farmer  for  the  sugar  beet  factory;  Martha  J.,  the  wife  of  Benjamin 
Tidlen,  of  Davenport,  Washington;  and  Mary,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage 
to  Edward  Olson  and  resides  in  the  Ford  home. 

Mr.  Ford  has  always  exercised  his  right  of  franchise  in  support  of  the  men 
and  measures  of  the  republican  party  and  has  ever  been  a most  public-spirited 
and  progressive  citizen.  He  has  served  in  the  capacity  of  supervisor  and  school 
officer  for  many  years  and  in  1873,  1874  and  *875  acted  as  town  treasurer,  Anson 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


65 


township  being  at  that  time  nearly  as  large  as  the  entire  county  of  Chippewa  is 
now.  He  has  likewise  served  as  sheriff  of  the  county  for  two  years  and  now 
acts  as  chairman  of  the  town  board,  having  held  the  latter  position  for  several 
terms.  His  record  as  a public  official  has  ever  been  characterized  by  ability  and 
fidelity  and  is  most  commendable.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Episcopal 
church  and  he  was  formerly  identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  widely  and  favorably  known  throughout 
the  county,  having  gained  many  friends  during  the  long  period  of  their  resi- 
dence here. 


GEORGE  F.  SOWLE. 

George  F.  Sowle,  successfully  engaged  in  business  as  a general  merchant 
of  Cornell,  has  also  served  as  postmaster  of  the  town  since  January,  1908,  and 
in  this  connection  has  made  a creditable  and  commendable  record.  The  period 
of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  county  covers  nine  years,  the  date  of  his  arrival 
being  February  17,  1904. 

His  birth  occurred  at  Sparta,  Monroe  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  3d  of  Jan- 
uary, 1861,  his  parents  being  D.  W.  and  Helen  M.  (Van  Alsteine)  Sowle.  The 
family  is  of  British  origin  and  its  first  representatives  in  this  country  were  pas- 
sengers on  the  Mayflower.  D.  W.  Sowle,  an  agriculturist  by  occupation,  also 
operated  a sawmill  in  Monroe  county  for  twenty  years.  He  was  likewise  an 
active  factor  in  public  life,  serving  as  chairman  of  the  county  board  and  trustee 
of  the  courthouse  building  committee  of  Monroe  county.  At  the  present  time 
he  makes  his  home  with  our  subject.  His  wife  passed  away  on  the  8th  of 
February,  1913,  and  was  buried  at  Warrens,  Wisconsin. 

George  F.  Sowle  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
county,  leaving  high  school  at  the  age  of  nineteen.  He  then  secured  a position 
as  station  agent  and  was  employed  in  that  capacity  in  various  parts  of  Minne- 
sota, Nebraska,  Iowa  and  Wisconsin  for  a period  of  thirty-one  years,  being  at 
the  end  of  that  time  pensioned  by  the  Chicago,  St.  Paul,  Minneapolis  & Omaha 
road.  No  higher  testimonial  of  his  efficient  and  faithful  service  could  be  given. 
He  is  now  actively  engaged  in  the  general  mercantile  business,  conducting  a 
store  at  Cornell,  where  he  has  built  up  a gratifying  and  profitable  trade.  His 
store  and  home,  which  he  erected,  was  the  first  structure  built  in  Cornell. 

On  the  24th  of  May,  1899,  at  New  Richmond,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Sowle  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Anna  Roberts,  a daughter  of  Griffith  and  Elizabeth 
Roberts.  The  father,  a pioneer  farmer  of  St.  Croix  county,  passed  away  on 
the  20th  of  January,  1903,  while  the  mother  was  called  to  her  final  rest  on 
the  16th  of  November,  1912.  Both  were  interred  in  the  cemetery  at  Boardman, 
Wisconsin.  The  Roberts  family  is  of  British  origin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sowle  have 
four  children,  namely:  Griffith  R.  and  Clarence  F.,  who  are  attending  school; 
Walter  H.,  who  is  the  first  child  born  in  Cornell ; and  George  N. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Sowle  is  independent  and  when  exercising  his  right 
of  franchise  considers  the  capability  and  fitness  of  a candidate  rather  than  his 
party  affiliation.  In  January,  1908,  he  was  appointed  postmaster  of  Cornell 


66 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  has  ably  served  in  that  capacity  to  the  present  time.  He  is  the  possessor 
of  many  good  qualities  that  have  attracted  friends  and  by  his  straightforward 
course  through  life  he  has  gained  and  retained  the  confidence  and  respect  of 
those  with  whom  he  is  associated. 


TRACY  M.  CARY. 

Tracy  M.  Cary  became  connected  with  the  First  National  Bank  of  Chippewa 
Falls  in  1873  ar*d  since  that  time  has  risen  steadily,  advancing  through  depart- 
ment after  department  until  today  he  occupies  a position  of  distinctive  precedence 
in  financial  circles  of  the  city  as  cashier  of  the  institution,  in  which  he  is  also 
a stockholder  and  director.  He  was  born  in  Binghamton,  New  York,  January 
17,  1854,  and  is  a son  of  Oliver  A.  and  Sarah  M.  (Newell)  Cary,  the  former 
of  whom  was  for  many  years  a merchant  of  that  city  and,  from  1872,  of 
Corning,  New  York.  He  is  now  engaged  in  the  insurance  business  at  Corning 
and  has  reached  the  age  of  eighty-six  years.  His  wife  passed  away  in  1857 
and  is  buried  in  the  Binghamton  cemetery.  The  Cary  family  is  of  ancient 
English  origin,  the  record  dating  back  to  Adam  de  Kari,  who  lived  in  Great 
Britain  in  1170.  Mr.  Cary  of  this  review  is  a direct  descendant  in  the  twenty- 
second  generation  of  Adam  de  Kari,  of  Castle  Kari,  Somerset,  England,  and 
possesses  the  coat  of  arms  of  the  English  Carys,  used  by  all  the  American 
representatives  of  this  family.  The  line  was  founded  in  the  United  States  by 
John  Cary,  who  joined  the  Plymouth  colony  in  1634  in  the  time  of  Miles  Standish. 
He  later  settled  in  Bridgewater,  Massachusetts,  and  there  became  very  prom- 
inent in  public  affairs,  serving  as  the  first  town  clerk  until  his  death  in  1681. 
In  the  year  1656  he  acted  as  the  only  town  official,  serving  as  constable,  and 
tradition  says  that  he  was  the  first  teacher  of  Latin  in  the  Plymouth  colony. 

Tracy  M.  Cary  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Binghamton, 
leaving  the  high  school  when  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age.  He  then  entered 
the  employ  of  the  City  National  Bank,  remaining  for  two  years.  At  the  end 
of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  upon  the  opening  of  the  First 
National  Bank  in  October,  1873,  became  connected  with  the  institution  as 
clerk.  His  ability  gained  him  advancement  and  he  rose  steadily  in  the  regard 
and  confidence  of  his  employers  until  he  was  finally  made  cashier  of  the  insti- 
tution. He  also  holds  stock  in  the  bank  and  is  a member  of  the  board  of  direc- 
tors and  a helpful  factor  in  determining  the  policy  of  the  institution  and  pro- 
moting its  growth  along  practical  lines.  The  First  National  Bank  of  Chippewa 
Falls  is  one  of  the  oldest  and  most  reliable  institutions  of  its  kind  in  Chippewa 
county.  The  original  charter  was  issued  May  1,  1873,  f°r  a twenty  year  period 
and  this  was  renewed  May  1,  1893.  Upon  the  expiration  of  the  second  charter 
in  1913  it  was  again  renewed  for  a twenty  year  period,  the  last  charter  to  expire 
May  1,  1933.  During  the  past  forty  years  the  First  National  Bank  has  had 
an  interesting  history.  It  was  organized  in  pioneer  times,  in  the  palmy  days 
of  the  Union  Lumbering  Company,  and  was  opened  for  business  in  October, 
1873.  Thomas  L.  Halbert  was  president;  H.  S.  Allen,  vice  president;  V.  W. 
Bayless,  cashier;  and  T.  M.  Cary,  bookkeeper.  L.  M.  Newman  was  made 


TRACY  M.  CARY 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


69 


cashier  in  1876  and  S.  M.  Newton  was  the  second  president,  succeeded  by  the 
late  A.  K.  Fletcher,  upon  whose  demise  L.  C.  Stanley  was  elected  to  the  office. 
His  successor  was  F.  Weyerhaeuser,  who  was  followed  by  the  present  president, 
August  Mason.  The  late  J.  B.  Kehl  followed  H.  S.  Allen  as  vice  president  and 
B.  D.  Viles  succeeded  the  latter  and  is  now  serving.  L.  M.  Newman  is  now 
acting  as  second  vice  president,  T.  M.  Cary  is  cashier  and  L.  A.  Marshall, 
assistant  cashier.  The  bank  is  a designated  depositary  of  the  United  States 
postal  funds,  state  and  city  funds,  and  it  is  one  of  the  most  sound  and  reliable 
financial  institutions  in  the  city,  notable  for  the  share  it  has  taken  in  develop- 
ing business  interests  and  industries  here.  The  bank  is  in  the  hands  of  some  of 
the  most  able  and  conservative  capitalists  of  this  part  of  the  state  and  has  a wide 
reputation  for  fair  dealing  and  conservative  policies. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  26th  of  September,  1877,  Mr-  Cary  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Mary  G.  Cruttenden,  a daughter  of  Hopestill  Cruttenden,  who 
was  for  many  years  a farmer  at  Morris,  New  York,  and  whose  first  American 
ancestor  came  from  England  to  Connecticut  in  1639.  He  and  his  wife  have 
passed  away,  the  former  being  buried  in  Morris  and  the  latter  in  Forest  Hill 
cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cary  became  the  parents  of  three 
children.  Clara  M.  died  in  1905,  at  the  age  of  twenty-six,  and  is  buried  in 
the  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  Walter  E.  is  an  accountant  in  the  First  National 
Bank  of  Minneapolis,  Minnesota.  He  married  Miss  Bertha  Schneider,  of  Mil- 
waukee, and  they  have  two  children,  Alice  G.  and  Robert  N.  Evan  F.  is  a 
student  in  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school.  The  family  residence  is  at  No.  215 
West  Spruce  street  and  is  an  attractive  dwelling,  which  Mr.  Cary  remodeled. 

Mr.  Cary  has  been  a notary  public  from  1886  and  since  1893  treasurer  of  the 
Chippewa  Falls  Forest  Hill  cemetery  and  has  done  very  useful  and  able  work 
in  this  capacity.  He  is  well  known  in  church  circles,  being  senior  warden  of 
Christ  Episcopal  church,  and  has  represented  the  diocese  of  Milwaukee  as  dep- 
uty to  six  triennial  conventions,  namely  those  held  at  Minneapolis,  Minnesota ; 
Washington,  D.  C. ; San  Francisco,  California;  Boston,  Massachusetts;  Rich- 
mond, Virginia ; and  Cincinnati,  Ohio.  He  is  also  a delegate-elect  for  the  next 
convention,  to  be  held  in  New  York  city.  His  political  allegiance  is  given  to 
the  republican  party  and,  while  he  has  never  sought  public  office,  he  served 
for  three  terms  on  the  board  of  aldermen,  acting  as  chairman  of  the  finance 
committee.  For  forty  years  he  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  Falls  and 
during  that  time  has  witnessed  practically  the  entire  development  of  the  city, 
never  neglecting  any  opportunity  to  advance  its  interests  or  promote  its  growth. 


FREEMAN  V.  SIDDONS. 

Freeman  V.  Siddons,  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  acres  of  land  in 
Anson  township,  embracing  fifty  acres  on  section  14  and  one  hundred  and  thirty 
acres  on  section  15,  follows  diversified  farming,  stock-raising  and  dairying  with 
excellent  success.  His  birth  occurred  in  Aurora,  Ontario,  Canada,  on  the  26th 
of  April,  1865,  his  parents  being  S.  B.  and  Hannah  (Playtor)  Siddons.  A sketch 
of  the  father  appears  on  another  page  of  this  work. 


70 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Freeman  Y.  Siddons  attended  school  in  Troy,  Iowa,  until  sixteen  years  of  age 
and  throughout  the  following  six  years  assisted  his  father  in  the  work  of  the  fields. 
When  a young  man  of  twenty-two  he  made  his  way  to  Lincoln  county,  Nebraska, 
and  was  there  engaged  in  farming  on  his  own  account  for  a period  of  four  years, 
returning  to  Iowa  in  1892.  He  then  cultivated  rented  land  in  that  state  until  1897, 
when  he  came  to  Wisconsin,  here  also  operating  a rented  farm  for  two  years. 
On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  took  charge  of 
the  farm  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  acres  in  Anson  township  which  he  now  owns 
and  operates,  acquiring  eighty  acres  thereof  by  purchase  and  receiving  one  hun- 
dred acres  from  his  father.  The  residence  and  other  buildings  on  the  property 
were  erected  by  him,  and  the  neat  and  thrifty  appearance  of  the  place  indicates 
the  careful  supervision  of  a practical  and  progressive  owner.  He  follows  the  pur- 
suits of  farming,  stock-raising  and  dairying  and  has  met  with  success  in  these 
undertakings,  being  now  numbered  among  the  substantial  and  representative  citi- 
zens of  his  community. 

On  the  22d  of  January,  1890,  in  Troy,  Iowa,  Mr.  Siddons  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Axie  Conner,  a daughter  of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Akers)  Conner. 
The  father,  a blacksmith  by  trade,  passed  away  in  1906  and  lies  buried  in  a 
cemetery  at  Troy,  Iowa,  in  which  town  the  mother  still  makes  her  home.  The 
family  is  of  old  Irish  origin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Siddons  have  six  children,  as  follows: 
Cleo,  who  assists  his  father ; Harold,  at  home ; Vance,  Lloyd  and  Samuel,  all  of 
whom  assist  the  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  farm ; and  Mabel,  who  is 
attending  school. 

Mr.  Siddons  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  frater- 
nally is  identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  belonging  to  Lodge 
No.  146  at  Chippewa  Falls.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  church.  His  support  is  given  to  all  progressive  measures 
and  his  aid  can  always  be  counted  upon  to  further  those  interests  which  are  of 
genuine  worth  to  the  community. 


EDWARD  FALBE. 

Edward  Falbe,  one  of  the  most  prosperous  and  enterprising  residents  of  Hol- 
combe, acquired  property  here  when  the  district  was  still  but  a wilderness  and 
today  owns  twenty-two  forty-acre  tracts,  clearing  and  farming  an  extensive 
tract  near  the  village.  He  likewise  conducts  a hotel  and  livery  business  in 
Holcombe  and  has  been  identified  with  railroad  construction  work  as  a contractor 
since  1901,  spending  most  of  his  time  with  a construction  gang.  Success  has 
attended  his  various  undertakings,  for  he  is  a man  of  excellent  executive  ability 
and  sound  judgment. 

His  birth  occurred  in  Green  Lake  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  16th  of  October, 
1871,  his  parents  being  Henry  and  Minnie  (Ponto)  Falbe,  natives  of  West 
Prussia,  Germany.  In  1864  they  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States, 
settling  in  Ripon,  Wisconsin.  The  father  was  in  limited  financial  circumstances 
and  accepted  any  employment  that  he  could  get.  Subsequently  he  turned  his 
attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits,  successfully  carrying  on  farming  until 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


71 


he  had  accumulated  a competency.  He  is  now  living  retired  at  Princeton, 
Wisconsin,  with  his  wife,  the  worthy  couple  being  more  than  eighty  years  of  age. 

Edward  Falbe  went  to  work  as  a farm  hand  when  but  fourteen  years  of 
age  and  when  a young  man  of  nineteen  removed  to  Princeton,  where  he  embarked 
m the  ice  and  draying  business.  He  afterward  spent  three  years  as  a cook  in 
logging  and  railroad  camps  and  subsequently  took  up  railroad  construction  work, 
having  been  engaged  in  contracting  to  the  present  time.  In  1902  he  assisted 
in  building  the  road  through  Chippewa  county  and,  foreseeing  the  rapid  growth 
and  development  of  the  district,  purchased  property  and  located  in  Holcombe 
township  when  there  was  not  a house  in  sight  and  all  the  land  was  covered  with 
timber  and  brush.  Today  he  owns  twenty-two  forty-acre  tracts  and  is  clearing 
and  farming  an  extensive  tract  near  the  village  of  Holcombe.  He  also  conducts 
a hotel  and  livery  business  in  Holcombe  but  spends  part  of  his  time  with  a con- 
struction gang  in  railroad  work,  having  his  own  outfit  and  having  been  a 
contractor  along  that  line  for  the  past  twelve  years.  His  connection  with  any 
undertaking  insures  a prosperous  outcome  of  the  same,  for  it  is  in  his  nature 
to  carry  forward  to  successful  completion  whatever  he  is  associated  with.  He 
possesses  untiring  energy,  is  quick  of  perception,  forms  his  plans  readily  and 
is  determined  in  their  execution,  gaining  and  maintaining  an  enviable  reputation 
as  one  of  the  substantial  and  influential  citizens  of  Holcombe. 

In  Green  Lake  county,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Falbe  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Tillie  Manthey,  a native  of  that  county,  by  whom  he  had  seven  children,  five 
of  whom  are  still  living,  namely : Irvin,  Lester,  Agnes,  Lillie  and  Edward. 


PETER  MICHAELS. 

Since  1883  Peter  Michaels  has  owned  and  operated  a fine  farm  of  one  hun- 
dred and  thirty-five  acres  on  sections  12  and  13,  Howard  township,  and  by  his 
practical  methods  and  untiring  industry  has  surrounded  himself  with  an  enviable 
degree  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  February,  1851,  and  is  a 
son  of  John  and  Anna  M.  (Smith  ) Michaels,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away, 
the  father  dying  in  1885  and  the  mother  in  1887.  They  never  came  to  America 
and  are  buried  in  Germany. 

Peter  Michaels  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
country  and  at  the  age  of  thirteen  laid  aside  his  books.  He  then  began  assisting 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  and  so  continued  until  1883,  when 
he  came  to  America.  He  was  at  that  time  a progressive  and  practical  farmer, 
for  he  had  learned  the  best  agricultural  methods  by  personal  experience  upon 
his  father’s  farm.  Upon  arriving  in  Chippewa  county,  he  at  once  turned  his 
attention  to  agricultural  pursuits,  buying  one  hundred  and  thirty-five  acres  of 
land  on  sections  12  and  13,  Howard  township.  Upon  this  he  has  since  resided, 
steadily  carrying  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development,  erecting 
a fine  residence  and  good  farm  buildings  and  neglecting  nothing  which  would 
add  to  the  appearance  or  value  of  the  place.  He  has  about  ninety  acres  under 
cultivation,  specializing  in  the  raising  of  grain,  and  his  interests,  being  all  care- 
fully and  practically  conducted,  have  brought  him  a large  measure  of  success. 


72 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  Germany,  in  1874,  Mr.  Michaels  married  Miss  Maria  Ochman,  a daugh- 
ter of  Joseph  and  Eva  (Glasman)  Ochman,  who  have  passed  away  and  are 
buried  in  their  native  country.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Michaels  have  four  children : 
Mary,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Caroline,  the  wife  of  John  Bobley,  who  is  engaged 
in  farming  in  Chippewa  county;  Nick,  assisting  his  father;  and  Joseph,  at  home. 

Mr.  Michaels  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  a democrat 
in  his  political  beliefs.  He  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  on  his  present  farm 
for  thirty  years  and  each  year  has  witnessed  his  increasing  prosperity.  His 
success  is  well  deserved,  for  he  is  a man  of  upright  character  and  honorable 
principles,  commanding  and  holding  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors 
and  friends. 


N.  H.  DEUEL. 

One  of  the  most  forceful  factors  in  progress  and  advancement  and  the  founder 
of  Arnold,  Wisconsin,  N.  H.  Deuel  has  done  much  along  various  lines  to  bring 
about  the  prosperous  conditions  which  now  prevail  in  that  locality.  An  able, 
shrewd  and  farsighted  business  man  and  a successful  merchant,  he  has  been  a 
resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  thirty  years.  Moreover,  Mr.  Deuel  in  his 
earlier  years  was  prominent  in  the  milling  business  and  has  achieved  success 
along  that  line.  He  also  conducts  a profitable  hotel,  owns  valuable  farm  lands, 
beside  village  lots,  and  is  the  owner  of  the  Deuel  telephone  line,  also  known  as 
the  Arnold  line,  which  operates  one  hundred  and  seventeen  miles  of  telephone 
connections.  In  addition  to  all  this,  Mr.  Deuel  has  held  several  public  positions, 
the  duties  of  which  he  discharged  with  conspicuous  ability. 

N.  H.  Deuel  was  born  in  La  Crescent,  Houston  county,  Minnesota,  opposite 
La  Crosse,  Wisconsin,  April  10,  1867.  His  father  was  C.  C.  Deuel,  a native 
of  New  York  state,  who  in  the  early  ’40s  went  to  La  Crosse  and  became  an 
engineer  on  the  Mississippi  river  boats.  On  May  30,  1883,  he  removed  with 
his  family  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  built  and  operated  a sawmill  five  miles 
north  of  Cadott,  in  this  county.  On  that  property  he  died  in  1887.  He  was 
married  to  Emma  Sophia  Willard,  a native  of  Illinois,  who  now  makes  her  home 
at  Shell  Lake,  Wisconsin.  In  their  family  were  three  children : George  W.,  a 
journalist  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Lucy  M.,  the  wife  of  Judge  Bugby,  of  Washburn 
county,  Wisconsin;  and  N.  H.,  our  subject. 

N.  H.  Deuel  received  a common  school  education,  attending  until  sixteen 
years  of  age,  at  which  period  of  his  life  he  came  to  Chippewa  county.  He  took 
up  employment  in  his  father’s  mill,  becoming  a millwright  and  learning  all  of 
the  details  connected  with  running  a sawmill.  After  his  father’s  death  he  con- 
tinued operating  the  mill  for  a while,  and  for  four  years  also  ran  a mill  on 

Little  Jump.  While  there  he  was  seriously  injured  by  a log  rolling  on  him, 

which  accident  made  it  impossible  for  him  to  continue  in  this  calling.  In  1904 

he  came  to  his  present  location,  which  was  then  known  as  Sillhawn,  being  named 
from  the  firm  of  Sill  & Hawn,  who  operated  a mill  at  Ruby.  The  location  which 
Mr.  Deuel  selected  is  on  the  Hannibal  branch  of  the  Omaha  branch  of  the 
Chicago  & Northwestern  Railroad.  Here  he  established  a store  and  postoffice 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


73 


in  1905  and  the  name  given  to  the  place  was  Arnold,  being  the  name  of  Mr. 
Deuel’s  eldest  son  and  was  one  of  three  offered  to  the  postoffice  department 
when  a request  was  made  for  a name  to  be  given  to  the  postoffice.  Mr.  Deuel  has 
been  very  successful  in  conducting  his  store,  which  is  modernly  equipped  and 
where  he  carries  a complete  and  reliable  line  of  goods,  including  practically 
everything  which  his  trade  might  demand.  He  also  successfully  operates  a 
hotel  and  owns  forty  acres  of  valuable  land,  beside  a number  of  village  lots. 
In  partnership  with  others  Mr.  Deuel  also  built  a sawmill,  later  purchasing  the 
interests  of  his  partners,  but  he  has  not  operated  this  enterprise  for  the  last 
three  years.  He  is  proprietor  of  what  is  known  as  the  Deuel  or  Arnold  tele- 
phone line,  connecting  Holcombe,  Arnold,  Sheldon,  Donald,  Ruby,  Hannibal, 
Stanley,  Colburn  and  Huron.  They  operate  one  hundred  and  seventeen  miles 
of  line  and  have  long-distance  connection  at  Stanley.  This  now  extensive  system 
had  its  beginning  when  Mr.  Deuel  constructed  a line  from  Arnold  to  Holcombe 
for  his  own  use.  Other  parties  asked  to  be  connected  and  thus  gradually  the 
system  has  grown  to  what  it  is  today. 

Mr.  Deuel  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Martha  Stassel,  a native  of  Ger- 
many and  a daughter  of  Gottlieb  Stassel,  who  emigrated  from  that  country  in 
1891.  The  father  has  since  passed  away  but  the  mother  still  makes  her  home 
with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Deuel.  The  latter  have  seven  children : Arnold,  Ella,  Walter, 
Curtis,  Orville,  Norman  and  Gordon. 

Public-spirited  and  progressive,  Mr.  Deuel  has  ever  taken  a deep  interest 
in  the  advancement  of  his  locality  and  forcefully  endorses  all  worthy  public 
enterprises.  He  at  present  serves  as  treasurer  of  his  township  and  has  held 
the  same  office  in  relation  to  the  school  board  ever  since  the  township  was 
organized.  Deeply  interested  in  the  cause  of  education,  he  has  done  much 
toward  promoting  facilities  for  that  purpose.  Mr.  Deuel  has,  through  his  exten- 
sive connections  with  various  enterprises,  perhaps  done  more  than  any  other 
man  in  furthering  the  interests  of  his  locality,  and  his  life  record  not  only  fur- 
nishes an  example  of  individual  attainment  through  worthy  methods  but  sets 
up  a standard  for  the  younger  generation  of  true  and  public-spirited  citizenship. 
Mr.  Deuel  enjoys  in  full  measure  the  respect  and  esteem  of  his  friends  and 
neighbors,  who  regard  him  highly  on  account  of  his  achievements  and  even 
more  so  because  of  the  high  qualities  of  character  which  have  made  possible 
his  success. 


JOHN  C.  McRAE. 


John  C.  McRae,  a blacksmith  of  Chippewa  Falls,  has  conducted  a shop  on 
West  Grand  avenue  for  more  than  a quarter  of  a century  and  has  built  up  the 
largest  horseshoeing  business  in  the  city.  He  came  to  Chippewa  county  in 
1877,  and  the  period  of  his  residence  here  therefore  covers  thirty-six  years. 
His  birth  occurred  in  Glengarry  county,  Ontario,  Canada,  on  the  10th  of  June, 
1854,  his  parents  being  Christopher  and  Annie  (Chisholm)  McRae.  The  father, 
a storekeeper  and  lumber  logger,  passed  away  in  1864,  being  for  many  years 


74 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


survived  by  the  mother,  who  was  called  to  her  final  rest  in  1911.  Both  are 
buried  in  St.  Andrews,  Ontario. 

John  C.  McRae  obtained  his  education  in  his  native  county,  attending  school 
when  opportunity  offered  until  twenty-two  years  of  age.  As  above  stated,  he 
then  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1877  and  here  began  learning  the  blacksmith’s 
trade,  which  he  followed  as  a journeyman  until  he  embarked  in  business  on  his 
own  account  in  1885.  Success  has  attended  his  efforts  from  that  time  to  the 
present  and  he  now  enjoys  the  distinction  of  carrying  on  the  largest  horseshoeing 
business  in  the  city.  He  owns  much  property  in  Seattle,  Washington,  and  is 
widely  recognized  as  a prosperous  and  representative  citizen  of  his  community. 

In  December,  1881,  at  Menomonie,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  McRae  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Minnie  Calder,  her  father  being  a pioneer  blacksmith.  Her 
parents  are  still  living  and  reside  in  Seattle,  Washington.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McRae 
have  two  children,  namely : Florence,  who  is  the  wife  of  James  Healy,  a con- 
fectioner of  Chippewa  Falls;  and  William,  an  agriculturist  of  Chippewa  county. 
The  family  residence  at  No.  510  High  street  was  erected  by  our  subject. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  McRae  is  independent,  supporting  men  and  meas- 
ures rather  than  party.  He  is  a devout  communicant  of  the  Catholic  church 
and  also  belongs  to  the  Knights  of  Wisconsin.  A prosperous  business  man,  an 
exemplary  citizen  and  a man  of  high  moral  standards,  he  enjoys  the  respect 
of  all  who  have  come  in  contact  with  him.  He  has  become  widely  and  favorably 
known  during  the  long  period  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls,  the  circle  of 
his  friends  being  almost  coextensive  with  the  circle  of  his  acquaintances. 


ERNEST  C.  RHEINGANS. 


Ernest  C.  Rheingans,  one  of  the  worthy  native  sons  and  enterprising  agri- 
culturists of  Chippewa  county,  is  the  owner  of  an  excellent  farm  of  one  hundred 
and  eighty  acres  on  sections  24,  30  and  35,  Tilden  township.  His  birth  occurred 
on  the  old  homestead,  where  he  still  resides,  on  the  18th  of  April,  1880,  his 
parents  being  Phillip  and  Mary  E.  (Kehrine)  Rheingans.  The  father  emigrated 
to  the  United  States  in  1850  and,  making  his  way  direct  to  Chippewa  county, 
Wisconsin,  settled  first  in  Eagle  Point  township  but  later  bought  the  property 
which  is  now  in  possession  of  our  subject.  The  tract  was  covered  with  heavy 
timber,  and  the  Indians  still  roamed  through  this  part  of  the  country.  By  dint 
of  hard  labor  and  undaunted  perseverance  Mr.  Rheingans  succeeded  in  clearing 
his  land  and  began  its  cultivation.  As  the  years  passed  he  prospered  in  his 
undertakings  as  an  agriculturist  and  at  the  time  of  his  demise  owned  a splendidly 
improved  and  valuable  farm  of  three  hundred  acres  as  well  as  other  properties. 
He  passed  away  in  1900,  at  the  age  of  sixty-five  years,  and  is  buried  in  the 
Forest  Hill  cemetery.  He  had  been  a resident  of  this  county  for  a half  century 
and  his  labors  were  a factor  in  its  development  and  upbuilding.  He  took  a deep 
and  helpful  interest  in  all  matters  that  affected  the  general  welfare  and  was  a 
very  popular  man,  enjoying  the  regard  and  esteem  of  all  with  whom  he  came 
in  contact.  He  is  still  survived  by  his  widow  and  nine  children,  who  cherish 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


75 


and  revere  his  memory,  for  he. was  ever  a most  devoted  and  loving  husband  and 
father. 

The  record  of  the  children  is  as  follows:  Frank  P.,  a railroad  engineer 
residing  in  Rochester,  New  York;  John  H.,  a Presbyterian  minister  of  Elkton, 
Michigan ; Mary  K.,  who  is  a nurse  in  the  Cook  County  Hospital ; Anna,  who 
died  in  1897  and  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery;  Edward,  who  follows 
farming  and  is  also  engaged  in  the  real-estate  business  at  Ladysmith,  Wisconsin; 
Nettie  S.,  living  in  Chippewa  Falls;  Walter  H.,  an  agriculturist  by  occupation; 
Minnie  C.,  a nurse  in  the  Presbyterian  Hospital  of  Chicago;  and  Ernest  C.,  of 
this  review. 

The  last  named  obtained  his  early  education  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  subse- 
quently pursued  a course  of  study  in  the  agricultural  college  at  Madison.  In 
the  meantime  he  had  assisted  his  father  in  the  work  of  the  home  farm  and 
after  returning  from  college  took  charge  of  the  place,  having  since  devoted  his 
attention  to  its  operation.  He  is  now  pursuing  the  diversified  method  of  agri- 
culture and  is  planning  to  make  his  place  a stock  farm  for  cattle,  hogs  and 
Percheron  horses. 

On  the  7th  of  June,  1905,  at  Baraboo,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Rheingans  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Harriett  E.  Cline,  a daughter  of  W.  H.  Cline,  who  is  a deco- 
rator of  Baraboo.  Mrs.  Rheingans  was  graduated  from  the  Baraboo  high  school 
with  the  class  of  1898  and  for  two  years  taught  in  the  kindergarten  department 
of  the  schools  of  that  city  and  later  for  two  years  in  the  State  Institute  for  Feeble 
Minded.  By  her  marriage  she  has  become  the  mother  of  two  sons,  William  and 
Robert. 

Mr.  Rheingans  is  a republican  in  politics  and  at  present  serves  in  the  capacity 
of  road  commissioner.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in 
the  Presbyterian  church.  In  the  community  where  his  entire  life  has  been  spent 
he  enjoys  an  enviable  reputation  as  a substantial  young  agriculturist  and  a citizen 
of  worth  and  enterprise. 


ANDREW  BENISH. 

Andrew  Benish,  owning  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  acres  on  section 
15,  Howard  township,  a property  upon  which  he  has  resided  since  1882,  was 
born  in  Germany  in  1856  and  is  a son  of  Frank  and  Kaby  Benish,  who  lived 
and  died  in  their  native  country.  Andrew  Benish  acquired  his  education  in  the 
public  schools  of  Germany  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  twelve, 
hired  out  as  a farm  laborer  for  about  fourteen  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time 
he  emigrated  to  America  and,  settling  in  Chippewa  county,  began  farming  inde- 
pendently, acquiring  one  hundred  and  eighty  acres  on  section  15,  Howard  town- 
ship, upon  which  he  has  since  resided.  He  specializes  in  the  raising  of  grain 
and  during  the  thirty-one  years  he  has  lived  upon  this  property  has  steadily 
adhered  to  progressive  and  practical  methods,  meeting  with  gratifying  and  well- 
deserved  success. 

In  Bloomer,  this  state,  Mr.  Benish  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Agnes 
Sokup,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Frank  Sokup,  residents  of  that  city.  Mr. 


76 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  Mrs.  Benish  have  become  the  parents  of  four  children,  Mamie,  Joseph, 
Mary  and  John,  all  of  whom  reside  at  home. 

Mr.  Benish  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs.  While  his  life  has  been  quietly  passed,  the  record  of  it 
nevertheless  contains  lessons  of  value,  for  it  shows  what  may  be  accomplished 
by  determination  and  honorable  dealing.  He  now  occupies  a position  among  the 
prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county  and  the  most  envious  cannot  grudge  him 
his  success,  so  worthily  has  it  been  won. 


W.  J.  SMETANA. 

W.  J.  Smetana,  who  conducts  the  only  harness  store  in  Bloomer,  is  a young 
man  of  thirty  years,  who  believes  in  hard  work  and  is  winning  success  through 
his  diligence  and  unfaltering  determination.  He  was  born  in  Bohemia,  in  1883. 
In  the  schools  of  his  native  land  he  pursued  his  education  and  afterward  began 
learning  the  harness  trade,  gaining  a good  knowledge  of  the  business  during  his 
residence  in  his  native  country.  The  reports  which  he  heard  concerning  the 
opportunities  of  the  new  world  attracted  him  and  with  the  hope  of  more  readily 
winning  success  on  this  side  the  Atlantic,  he  came  to  the  United  States  in  1903, 
when  twenty  years  of  age.  He  did  not  pause  on  the  Atlantic  coast  but  made 
his  way  direct  to  Bloomer,  where  he  was  employed  for  four  years  in  the  harness 
shop  which  he  now  owns.  At  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  bought  out  his 
employer  and  has  since  conducted  the  business,  which  has  been  a growing  one. 
He  handles  a full  line  of  harness  and  saddlery  and  does  all  kinds  of  repairing, 
his  practical  knowledge  of  the  trade  enabling  him  to  promptly  execute  all  orders 
and  meet  all  requirements. 

Mr.  Smetana  was  married  in  1911  to  Miss  Agnes  Smetana.  They  have  one 
child,  Julia.  In  politics  Mr.  Smetana  is  a democrat.  He  always  votes  with  the 
party  and  is  well  informed  on  the  questions  and  issues  of  the  day.  He  holds 
membership  with  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin,  and  is  a communicant  of 
the  Catholic  church.  He  has  never  had  occasion  to  regret  his  determination  to 
come  to  the  new  world,  for  he  has  here  found  the  opportunities  which  he  sought 
and  in  their  utilization  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward,  having  already 
gained  a substantial  measure  of  success  that  promises  well  for  the  future. 


JAY  E.  POZNANSKI. 

Chippewa  Falls  numbers  among  its  progressive  native  sons  and  among  the 
most  enterprising  and  active  of  the  younger  generation  of  its  business  men  Jay 
E.  Poznanski,  who  since  the  incorporation  of  the  Northwood  Furniture  Company 
in  1910  has  done  farsighted  and  able  work  as  its  secretary,  treasurer  and  general 
manager.  He  was  born  in  this  city  December  7,  1885,  and  is  a son  of  Edward  and 
Leah  (Pozner)  Poznanski,  the  former  of  Polish  origin.  The  father  came  to 
Chippewa  countv  in  1867.  He  became  one  of  the  prominent  dry-goods  merchants 


JAY  E.  POZXANSKI 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


79 


in  Chippewa  Falls,  retaining  his  connection  with  this  line  of  business  until  his 
death,  which  occurred  in  1898,  when  he  was  fifty-six  years  of  age.  His  wife 
survived  him  only  a short  time,  dying  in  1900,  at  the  age  of  fifty.  Both  are  buried 
in  the  Greenwood  cemetery  in  Milwaukee. 

Jay  E.  Poznanski  acquired  his  primary  education  at  St.  Johns  Military  Academy, 
Delafield,  Wisconsin,  and  afterward  was  a student  in  Phillips  Exeter  Academy  at 
Exeter,  New  Hampshire.  He  completed  his  education  by  a course  in  Yale  Uni- 
versity, which  he  left  at  the  age  of  twenty-two  years.  Afterward  he  went  to 
Nevada  and  spent  one  year  in  the  zinc  mines  of  Las  Vegas,  returning  at  the  end 
of  that  time  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  assisting  in  the  formation  of  the  Northwood 
Furniture  Company.  This  concern  has  a large  factory  on  Wagner  street  and 
since  its  formation  Mr.  Poznanski  has  acted  as  secretary,  treasurer  and  general 
manager.  His  executive  ability,  energy  and  organizing  power  have  been  called 
forth  and  have  been  helpful  factors  in  the  development  which  has  brougnt  the 
enterprise  from  a concern  employing  forty  men  to  one  which  offers  continuous 
work  to  ninety. 

In  Hot  Springs,  Arkansas,  April  14,  1909,  Mr.  Poznanski  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Louise  Richards,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  D.  C.  Richards,  of  that 
city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Poznanski  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children,  Louise  A. 
and  Tay  E.,  Jr.  Mr.  Poznanski  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellows'  and  is  interested  in  the  affairs  of  the  local  lodge.  Although 
still  a young  man,  he  has  already  demonstrated  his  possession  of  those  qualities 
necessary  for  business  success  and  his  future  will  undoubtedly  be  marked  by 
continuous  and  rapid  advancement. 


JOSEPH  HURT. 

Joseph  Hurt,  engaging  in  diversified  farming  upon  five  hundred  and  twenty- 
eight  acres  of  land  on  section  6,  Tilden  township,  is  ranked  among  the  progres- 
sive agriculturists  and  successful  stock-raisers  of  his  locality,  where  his  individ- 
ual prosperity  has  been  accounted  for  many  years  an  important  factor  in  general 
development.  He  was  born  in  Oxburg,  Austria,  January  15,  1871,  and  is  a son 
of  Frank  and  Theresa  (Zweifelhofer)  Hurt,  the  former  of  whom  passed  away 
when  the  subject  of  this  review  was  still  a child  and  is  buried  in  Germany. 
His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  with  her  son,  being  now  seventy- 
three  years  of  age. 

Joseph  Hurt  was  only  two  years  of  age  when  he  was  brought  to  Chippewa 
county  by  his  mother,  and  in  the  public  schools  of  Tilden  township  he  acquired 
his  education,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  early  age  of  thirteen.  He  afterward 
assisted  with  the  work  of  his  mother’s  farm  and  at  the  end  of  eight  years  bought 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  the  homestead.  Upon  this  property  he  has 
resided  since  that  time,  adding  to  his  holdings  at  intervals  until  he  is  today  the 
owner  of  five  hundred  and  twenty-eight  acres  of  valuable  land.  He  engages  in 
mixed  farming,  keeping  eighteen  head  of  cattle,  twelve  hogs  and  seven  horses, 
and  his  interests  are  all  carefully  and  progressively  conducted,  bringing  him  a 
gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 


80 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


On  the  ioth  of  January,  1893,  in  Tilden,  Mr.  Hurt  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Theresa  Drexler,  a daughter  of  Remegius  and  Anne  (Schinko)  Drexler, 
residents  of  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hurt  have  become  the  parents  of 
nine  children:  Anne,  the  wife  of  Conrad  Geotel,  a farmer  of  Chippewa  county; 
Mary;  joe;  Frank;  Theresa;  John;  Philip;  Leo;  and  Herbert. 

Mr.  Hurt  is  a member  of  the  St.  Peter's  Roman  Catholic  church  of  Tilden 
and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  views,  taking  an  active  interest  in  the  welfare 
of  the  section  in  which  he  has  so  long  resided  but  never  seeking  public  office. 
He  has  gained  an  enviable  reputation  as  a man  of  high  integrity  and  straight- 
forward dealing  and  his  success  is  a reward  of  many  years  of  well  directed  and 
untiring  labor. 


E.  C.  DETTLOFF. 

E.  C.  Dettloff,  proprietor  of  the  only  drug  store  in  Bloomer,  is  a native  of 
the  city,  born  in  1870,  a son  of  Charles  and  Lena  (Albrecht)  Dettloff.  The 
father  was  a native  of  Germany  and  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was 
ten  years  of  age,  locating  first  in  New  York  and  moving  to  Wisconsin  when  he 
was  still  a boy.  He  operated  the  first  hotel  in  Chippewa  county  but  later  sold 
this  enterprise  and  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  continuing  in  this  occupation 
until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1900  when  he  was  sixty-three  years  of  age. 
His  wife  survives  him.  They  became  the  parents  of  three  children:  H.  M., 
Otto  and  E.  C.,  of  this  review. 

E.  C.  Dettloff  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  later  took  a course  in  pharmacy  at  Colby,  graduating  in  1897.  In 
the  same  year  he  opened  his  drug  store  in  Bloomer  and  has  since  met  with 
splendid  success  as  a result  of  his  energy  and  ability  in  carrying  forward  his 
interests.  He  carries  a complete  line  of  drugs,  stationery,  paints,  oils,  smokers’ 
supplies  and  sundries  and  is  in  control  of  a large  and  growing  patronage. 

Mr.  Dettloff  married  Miss  Gertrude  Foster,  also  a native  of  this  county,  and 
they  have  two  children : Edward,  aged  six ; and  Clelland,  aged  five.  Mr.  Dettloff 
is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  although  he  is  not  an  active  office 
seeker,  is  interested  in  the  growth  and  progress  of  his  native  county  and  always 
ready  to  do  his  part  in  promoting  its  advancement.  He  is  held  in  high  esteem 
by  all  who  know  him  and  has  an  extensive  circle  of  friends. 


THOMAS  BRESINA. 

Not  only  is  Thomas  Bresina  one  of  the  most  substantial  agriculturists  ot 
Tilden  township,  Chippewa  county,  but  he  also  operates  a blacksmith  shop,  and 
a sawmill  and  conducts  a saloon,  deriving  gratifying  financial  returns  from  his 
various  undertakings.  His  farm  of  two  hundred  and  three  acres  is  located  on 
section  13,  Tilden  township,  and  there  he  has  erected  a building  which  would 
do  credit  to  any  city  and  which  he  uses  for  carrying  on  his  various  business 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


81 


enterprises.  Thomas  Bresina  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county  and  Tilden  town- 
ship, having  been  born  on  February  24,  1880,  a son  of  Wenzel  and  Theresa 
(Prueher)  Bresina.  The  father  engaged  in  farming  and  blacksmithing  and 
came  to  this  country  about  1850.  He  died  in  1911,  at  the  age  of  seventy-four, 
and  is  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery.  He  was  one  of  the  substantial  men  of 
the  locality  and  was  very  popular  with  all  who  knew  him. 

Thomas  Bresina  received  his  education  in  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  school  at  Til- 
den, which  he  left  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  He  then  assisted  his  father 
with  the  work  of  the  farm,  becoming  acquainted  with  agricultural  methods,  and 
later  learned  from  him  the  blacksmith's  trade,  which  business  he  still  follows. 
He  also  has  made  a decided  success  in  the  cultivation  of  his  land  and  in  con- 
junction with  these  two  enterprises  carries  on  sawmilling  and  conducts  a saloon. 
As  the  years  have  passed  prosperity  has  come  to  him  and  he  is  considered  one 
of  the  substantial  men  of  Tilden  township. 

On  April  15,  1902,  in  Bloomer,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Bresina  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Mary  Zwiefelhofer,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Joseph  Zwie- 
felhofer,  the  former  of  whom  is  a pioneer  of  this  district  and  both  of  whom 
are  now  residing  at  Auburn,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bresina  had  six  children: 
Frederick,  who  died  in  infancy;  and  Ida,  Bernard,  Martha,  Bertha  and  Joseph. 

Mr.  Bresina  gives  his  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party,  the  principles  of 
which  he  considers  the  most  conducive  to  good  government.  He  and  his  family 
are  members  of  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  church  at  Tilden  and  he  is  a member  of  the 
Catholic  Knights.  A progressive  and  enterprising  man,  he  takes  an  active 
interest  in  all  affairs  that  pertain  to  the  community,  and  he  himself  has  set  an 
example  of  progressive  standards  by  erecting  upon  his  farm  a typical  city  block, 
in  which  he  carries  on  all  his  enterprises.  He  has  made  numerous  improvements 
on  his  property,  which  through  his  incessant  efforts  has  greatly  increased  in 
value.  He  is  highly  respected  and  esteemed  by  all  who  know  him  and  his  friends 
are  many. 


CHARLES  EMMERTON. 

Among  the  well-to-do  agriculturists  of  Howard  township  and  Chippewa 
county  is  Charles  Emmerton,  who  owns  a productive  farm  of  eighty  acres  on 
section  4.  His  success  is  the  more  commendable  as  it  has  been  achieved  entirely 
through  his  own  efforts.  Mr.  Emmerton  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa  county,  his 
birth  having  occurred  February  26,  1863.  His  parents  were  Thomas  and  Sarah 
(Roberts)  Emmerton,  both  natives  of  England.  More  extended  mention  of 
Thomas  Emmerton  and  his  family  is  made  in  another  part  of  this  work  under 
that  heading. 

Charles  Emmerton  received  his  education  in  Chippewa  county,  leaving  school 
at  the  age  of  eighteen  years.  He  early  began  to  assist  his  father  in  work  on 
the  latter’s  large  farm  of  four  hundred  acres,  gaining  valuable  knowledge  and 
making  himself  master  of  thorough  methods  of  agriculture.  He  remained  upon 
his  father’s  homestead  until  1907,  when  he  began  his  independent  career  on 
the  place  which  he  now  owns.  He  engages  in  mixed  farming,  planting  the  soil 


82 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


to  the  most  suitable  grains  and  keeping  five  horses  and  twenty-five  head  of 
cattle.  His  land  is  in  a good  state. of  cultivation  and  he  has  erected  thereon  a 
handsome  residence  and  other  substantial  buildings.  He  has  modern  ideas  and 
is  progressive  in  his  methods,  his  good  judgment  and  incessant  industry  being 
creditably  reflected  by  his  valuable  property. 

In  1901,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Emmerton  married  Miss  Rose  Prince,  a 
daughter  of  Andrew  and  Sarah  (Corrigan)  Prince,  residents  of  Chippewa  county. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Emmerton  have  four  children,  Norman,  Ernest,  Lyle  and  Leila, 
all  of  whom  are  yet  at  home.  Mr.  Emmerton  is  a member  of  the  SS.  Peter 
and  Paul  Catholic  church  of  Auburn,  Wisconsin,  and  politically  is  a prohibi- 
tionist. He  is  interested  in  all  undertakings  inaugurated  to  benefit  the  com- 
munity, and,  although  he  has  never  participated  in  public  life,  furnishes  an 
excellent  example  of  true  American  citizenship  and  of  what  American  grit  and 
American  ambition  may  accomplish. 


JOHN  B.  BENISH. 


John  B.  Benish,  one  of  the  prosperous  agriculturists  of  Tilden  township, 
Chippewa  county,  is  a descendant  of  one  of  the  first  settlers  of  this  region.  He 
now  owns  a valuable  farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  26,  town 
29,  his  place  being  located  on  rural  route  No.  7,  from  Chippewa  Falls.  A native 
of  this  county,  he  was  born  on  December  23,  1870,  a son  of  Martin  and  Teresa 
(Duraney)  Benish.  The  father  emigrated  from  Germany  to  America  in  or 
about  1840  and  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  this  part  of  the  state,  taking  up 
land  which  was  still  entirely  in  a wild  state  and  covered  with  bush  and  develop- 
ing it  into  a highly  cultivated  farm.  It  is  this  place  on  which  our  subject  is 
now  residing.  The  father  died  on  May  5,  1908,  at  the  age  of  seventy-four  years, 
and  is  buried  in  Mount  Calvary  cemetery.  His  widow  makes  her  home  with 
our  subject. 

John  B.  Benish  attended  district  school  until  he  was  thirteen  years  of  age. 
He  then  began  his  independent  career,  working  in  the  woods.  For  fourteen  years 
he  ran  a lumber  camp,  eight  of  which  he  entirely  devoted  to  this  occupation. 
During  the  rest  of  the  time  he  assisted  his  father  to  some  extent.  Later  he 
acquired  the  old  homestead,  buying  out  the  other  heirs,  and  has  since  given  his 
entire  time  to  its  improvement.  He  has  built  a handsome  residence  and  sub- 
stantial barns  as  well  as  other  farm  buildings.  He  engages  in  mixed  farming 
but  is  at  present  contemplating  taking  up  stock  breeding.  Mr.  Benish  also 
owns  a threshing  machine  and  in  later  years  has  received  a gratifying  income 
from  operating  this  outfit.  He  is  also  engaged  in  the  selling  of  farm  imple- 
ments, handling  several  well  known  machines,  and  is  deriving  gratifying  returns 
from  that  source. 

On  May  9th,  1899,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Benish  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Margaret  Roehling,  a daughter  of  Peter  and  Margaret  (Kase)  Roehling, 
the  former  a pioneer  agriculturist  of  Chippewa  county,  who  passed  away  in 
October,  1899,  and  is  buried  in  St.  Charles  cemetery.  His  widow  still  resides 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


83 


on  the  old  homestead.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Benish  have  five  children : Mildred,  Louise, 
Clarence  and  Florence,  attending  school ; and  Helen. 

In  his  political  affiliations  Mr.  Benish  is  republican,  giving  his  stanch  sup- 
port to  the  measures  and  candidates  of  that  party.  He  has  taken  a lively  interest 
in  the  general  advancement  and  in  matters  of  political  importance  and  at  present 
serves  in  the  capacity  of  town  supervisor,  discharging  his  duties  in  a very  satis- 
factory manner.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  St.  Charles  Catholic 
church  of  Chippewa  Falls,  of  which  they  are  regular  attendants.  The  success 
which  Mr.  Benish  has  attained  is  to  be  attributed  to  his  inherent  qualities  of 
industry  and  good  judgment.  However,  he  himself  ascribes  a good  deal  of  what 
he  has  accomplished  to  the  assistance  of  his  able  and  helpful  life  companion. 


PETER  BOWE. 

Peter  Bowe  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  since  1866  and  during  the  greater 
portion  of  this  time  has  been  closely  identified  with  the  agricultural  interests  of 
Tilden  township,  where  he  owns  and  operates  an  eighty-acre  farm.  He  was 
born  in  Germany,  March  9,  1842,  and  is  a son  of  Peter  and  Katrina  Bowe,  both 
of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  the  fatherland. 

Peter  Bowe  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country 
and  at  the  age  of  fifteen  laid  aside  his  books  in  order  to  assist  his  father  with 
the  work  of  the  homestead.  He  remained  in  Germany  for  some  time  thereafter 
but  finally  emigrated  to  America,  where  he  began  working  in  the  mills  and 
woods  and  on  farms  in  various  localities,  continuing  thus  until  1866,  when  he 
moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  He  purchased 
eighty  acres  on  section  7,  Tilden  township,  and  upon  this  property  has  resided 
since  that  time,  his  careful  supervision  and  practical  labors  making  it  productive 
and  valuable. 

In  Jefferson  county,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Bowe  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Barbara  Swinde,  who  died  in  1909,  leaving  eight  children,  four  sons  and  four 
daughters.  Mr.  Bowe  is  a member  of  the  St.  Peter’s  Roman  Catholic  church  in 
Tilden  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  His  life  has  been  such  as  to 
give  him  a high  standing  in  the  eyes  of  the  community  and  he  is  generally 
recognized  as  a man  whose  long  years  of  earnest  labor  in  this  township  have 
not  only  contributed  to  his  own  prosperity  but  have  also  been  a boon  to  the 
community  at  large. 


JOHN  BJERKE. 

Among  the  substantial  farmers  of  Chippewa  county  is  John  Bjerke,  who 
owns  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land,  forty  of  which  have  been  cleared 
while  the  remainder  is  used  for  pasture.  A native  of  Norway,  he  was  born  four 
miles  north  of  Christiania,  January  24,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  Ole  and  Mary 
(Engelson)  Bjerke,  both  natives  of  Norway.  The  father  came  to  the  United 


84 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


States  in  1863,  settling  in  Fillmore  county,  Minnesota,  where  he  engaged  in  farm- 
ing on  rented  land.  Ten  years  later  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin, 
finding  employment  as  a lumber  jack.  Five  years  later  he  moved  to  township 
31,  range  5,  and  after  working  in  the  woods  for  a few  years  purchased  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  unbroken  land  covered  with  pine  timber.  There  he 
built  a home  and  lived  until  his  death  in  1905.  His  wife  also  passed  away  on 
the  old  homestead.  In  religious  faith  they  were  Lutherans.  Their  family  num- 
bered three  sons:  Gustav  Peterson,  who  now  lives  on  the  old  homestead  and 
uses  the  name  of  Peterson  as  it  was  the  family  name  when  the  parents  came  to 
America,  the  father,  however,  adopting  the  Norwegian  farm  name  for  himself 
and  his  other  children ; Charles,  who  also  lives  on  a farm  in  this  township ; and 
John,  our  subject. 

John  Bjerke  in  the  acquirement  of  his  education  attended  the  common  schools 
near  his  father’s  home  and  subsequently  remained  on  the  homestead  until  thirty 
years  of  age,  assisting  in  its  operation  and  acquiring  a good  knowledge  of  agri- 
cultural methods.  His  father  then  transferred  to  him  forty  acres  of  unbroken 
land,  upon  which  our  subject  built  his  home  and  where  he  has  since  resided, 
engaged  in  clearing  the  property.  He  has  also  since  acquired  title  to  eighty 
acres  which  is  used  as  a pasture. 

In  Chippewa  Falls  Mr.  Bjerke  was  married  to  Miss  Bertha  Bakke,  who 
was  born  about  fifteen  miles  north  of  Christiania,  Norway,  and  came  with  her 
parents  to  America  in  1881,  when  a child.  She  was  reared  in  Taylor  county, 
Wisconsin.  She  died  July  18,  1904,  leaving  four  children:  Ole,  who  makes  his 
home  in  Minnesota;  and  Elmer,  Arne  and  Minda,  at  home.  Mr.  Bjerke  is  a 
republican  and  serves  at  present  as  township  supervisor.  He  is  a member  of 
the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  respected  by  all  who  know  him  and  has  many  friends 
in  this  locality. 


CHRIS  GANZEL. 

Chris  Ganzel,  a highly  respected  and  valued  citizen  of  Boyd,  where  since 
1897  he  has  been  connected  with  business  interests  as  the  proprietor  of  a hotel, 
was  born  in  Outagamie  county,  Wisconsin,  February  28,  1862.  He  is  a son 
of  Chris  and  Dora  (Frick)  Ganzel,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1831 
and  the  latter  in  1827.  The  father  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1857,  and  engaged  first 
in  farming,  later  becoming  the  proprietor  of  a hotel.  He  died  in  1906  and  was 
survived  by  his  wife  until  1907.  In  their  family  were  ten  children,  six  of  whom 
are  now  living. 

Chris  Ganzel  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Greenville 
township,  Outagamie  county  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  He 
afterward  worked  upon  a farm  until  1881,  when  he  moved  to  Boyd,  settling  in 
this  community  in  very  early  times.  He  engaged  in  various  occupations  until 
1897,  in  which  year  he  opened  a hotel  in  the  city.  This  enterprise  he  has  since 
conducted  and  under  his  able  management  it  has  become  a modern  and  up-to-date 
hostelry,  drawing  its  patronage  from  a discriminating  class  of  people.  Mr. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


85 


Ganzel  is  a stockholder  in  the  State  Bank  of  Boyd  and  in  the  Boyd  Produce 
Company  and  is  known  as  a farsighted  and  progressive  business  man. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  18th  of  April,  1888,  Mr.  Ganzel  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Anna  Bashford,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Elisha  Bashford, 
the  former  a blacksmith  and  farmer.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ganzel  became  the  parents 
of  six  children,  Ollie,  Clyde,  Verna,  Vergil,  Kermit,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Ganzel  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  independent  in  his 
political  beliefs.  He  is  one  of  the  early  settlers  of  Boyd,  having  made  that  city 
his  home  for  the  past  thirty-two  years,  and  he  has  witnessed  the  greater  part 
of  its  growth  and  development.  His  own  activities  have  been  an  important  factor 
in  the  work  of  progress  and  his  success  places  him  today  among  the  substantial 
and  representative  men  of  the  community. 


GEORGE  HARTMAN,  Jr. 

Among  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county  is  George  Hartman,  Jr., 
who  owns  a valuable  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Tilden  township. 
He  is  a native  of  this  county  and  was  born  on  the  Hartman  homestead  on  April 
16,  1867,  a son  of  George  Hartman,  Sr.,  and  Kate  (Rander)  Hartman.  The 
father  came  to  Chippewa  county  from  Germany  about  1855  and  was  one  of  the 
first  settlers  here.  He  is  still  residing  on  the  old  homestead,  enjoying  in  full  mea- 
sure the  confidence  and  good-will  of  his  fellow  citizens.  He  has  been  prominent 
in  public  life,  serving  as  chairman  of  the  township  board  and  also  as  township 
treasurer.  His  wife  passed  away  in  1891  and  is  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery. 
She  bore  her  husband  ten  children : Joseph,  who  farms  in  Howard  township ; 
Frank,  an  agriculturist  of  Tilden  township;  George,  Jr.,  our  subject;  Paul,  a 
farmer  of  Auburn  township ; Phillip,  an  implement  dealer  of  Chippewa  Falls ; 
David,  residing  in  Oregon;  Godfried,  who  lives  on  the  old  homestead;  John, 
who  is  connected  with  the  hardware  business ; Edward,  engaged  in  the  creamery 
business;  and  Mary,  who  married  Joseph  Garner,  of  Chippewa  Falls. 

George  Hartman,  Jr.,  acquired  his  education  in  the  Tilden  township  district 
school  and  the  parochial  school,  laying  aside  his  text-books  at  the  age  of  four- 
teen years.  He  then  began  to  assist  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  home- 
stead and  continued  there  until  twenty-four  years  of  age,  acquiring  knowledge 
of  valuable  agricultural  methods.  At  the  end  of  that  period  he  rented  land  for 
a few  years  and  then  bought  his  present  holding  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres. 
He  has  brought  his  farm  to  a high  state  of  cultivation,  carrying  on  mixed  farm- 
ing and  raising  various  kinds  of  live  stock.  Mr.  Hartman  has  erected  a hand- 
some modern  residence  upon  the  land,  and  every  building  on  the  farm  bespeaks 
by  its  excellent  appearance  the  careful  management  of  the  owner.  He  is  modern 
and  progressive  in  his  ideas  and  the  latest  farm  machinery  can  be  found  upon 
his  place. 

On  the  23d  of  July,  1895,  at  Tilden,  Mr.  Hartman  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Lena  Miller,  a daughter  of  Valentine  Miller,  Sr.,  and  Emilie  (Geisler) 
Miller,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  of  Chippewa  county  and  both  residing  in 
Tilden  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hartman  have  two  children,  a son  and  a daugh- 


86 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ter.  The  former,  George  H.,  assists  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm, 
while  the  latter,  Elsie,  is  still  attending  school. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hartman  are  devout  communicants  of  the  St.  Peters  Catholic 
church  of  Tilden,  in  the  work  of  which  they  take  a deep  interest.  Politically  he 
is  a democrat.  Although  he  has  never  cared  to  accept  public  office,  he  takes  a 
great  interest  in  all  matters  of  general  importance  and  is  ever  ready  to  give  his 
support  to  worthy  enterprises  intended  to  benefit  the  community.  He  enjoys  in 
full  measure  the  respect  and  confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens  and  the  circle  of 
his  friends  is  large. 


A.  W.  WILMARTH,  M.  D. 

Since  1897  Dr.  A.  W.  Wilmarth  has  been  superintendent  of  the  State  Home 
for  the  Feeble-Minded  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  has  based  his  remarkable  success 
in  this  position  upon  his  excellent  general  training  in  medicine  and  surgery,  spe- 
cialization in  nervous  and  mental  disorders  and  a number  of  years’  practical 
experience  in  other  institutions  similar  to  the  one  with  which  he  is  now  connected. 
He  was  born  at  Taunton,  Massachusetts,  May  3,  1855,  and  is  a son  of  John  and 
Peddy  W.  (Dary)  Wilmarth,  the  former  of  whom  was  for  some  time  superin- 
tendent of  the  Oakland  Cotton  Mill  in  Oakland,  Massachusetts.  He  died  in 
1881  and  was  survived  by  his  wife  until  1887.  The  family  is  of  English  origin 
and  its  first  representative  came  to  America  in  1638.  Some  of  the  ancestors  of 
the  subject  of  this  review  fought  in  the  Revolutionary  war 

Dr.  A.  W.  Wilmarth  acquired  his  preliminary  education  in  the  public  and  high 
schools  of  his  native  city  and  afterward  entered  the  Albany  Medical  College,  from 
which  he  received  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1879.  Immediately  afterward  he  took 
up  the  general  practice  of  his  profession  in  eastern  Massachusetts  and  at  the  end 
of  four  years  and  a half  became  assistant  superintendent  in  the  Pennsylvania 
Home  for  the  Feeble-Minded  at  Elwyn,  Pennsylvania.  He  remained  there  for 
eight  years  and  then  went  to  Norristown,  Pennsylvania,  where  he  acted  as  senior 
assistant  physician  at  the  State  Hospital  for  the  Insane  until  January  11,  1897, 
when  he  entered  upon  his  duties  as  superintendent  of  the  State  Home  for  the 
Feeble-Minded  at  Chippewa  Falls.  His  previous  experience  has  aided  him 
greatly  in  the  discharge  of  his  important  duties  and,  combined  with  his  ability  and 
practical  views,  makes  him  eminently  well  qualified  for  his  position.  He  keeps 
in  touch  with  the  trend  of  modern  thought  in  his  profession  and  pays  particular 
attention  to  what  is  being  done  in  the  field  of  nervous  or  mental  disorders.  He  is 
a member  of  the  Philadelphia  Neurological  Society,  the  American  Association 
for  the  Study  of  the  Feeble-Minded,  the  Philadelphia  Pathological  Society  and  the 
American  Medical  Association,  and  his  ability  is  known  and  recognized  in  profes- 
sional circles. 

In  Easton,  Pennsylvania,  on  the  24th  of  March,  1891,  Dr.  Wilmarth  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Theodora  M.  Kolb,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Reuben  Kolb,  the  former  a real-estate  agent  in  Easton.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Wilmarth 
have  become  the  parents  of  a son,  Raymond  K.,  who  is  a student  at  Princeton 
University. 


DR.  A.  W.  WILMARTH 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


89 


Dr.  Wilmarth  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church.  He  is  well  and 
favorably  known  in  Chippewa  Falls,  for  he  has  accomplished  a great  deal  of 
excellent  work  in  the  difficult  position  which  he  occupies.  He  holds  the  high 
esteem  of  his  brethren  of  the  medical  fraternity  and  the  regard  and  confidence 
of  all  with  whom  he  has  professional  or  social  relations. 


E.  L.  HAWN. 

For  many  years  E.  L.  Hawn  has  been  prominent  in  the  lumber  industry  of 
Chippewa  county  and  in  that  connection  has  become  the  founder  of  the  town 
of  Ruby,  named  after  his  only  daughter.  Mr.  Hawn  is  still  engaged  along  that 
line  and  as  the  years  have  passed  prosperity  has  been  the  result  of  his  endeavors. 
He  is  a native  of  Dodge  county,  this  state,  and  a son  of  C.  A.  Hawn,  who  was 
born  in  New  York  state  and  in  1848  came  west,  settling  at  Neosho,  Dodge  county. 
He  was  a millwright  by  occupation  and  engaged  in  the  sawmill  business  in  this 
state.  He  operated  successfully  for  a number  of  years  in  Pierce  county  under 
the  firm  name  of  C.  A.  Hawn  & Sons  and  was  prominent  in  his  county,  which 
he  represented  in  the  legislature  m 1877  and  in  1878.  After  retiring  from  active 
business  life  he  made  his  home  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  died  about  three 
years  ago.  His  father  was  Adam  Hawn,  a soldier  of  the  War  of  1812,  and 
assisted  in  building  Perry’s  fleet  on  Lake  Erie.  He  first  went  to  Prairie  du  Chien, 
Wisconsin,  in  1836  but  subsequently  returned  to  New  York,  coming  again  to 
this  state  when  Wisconsin  was  admitted  to  the  union  in  1848.  The  mother  of 
our  subject  was  Priscilla  Louisa  White,  born  at  Enosburg  Falls,  Vermont.  She 
passed  away  nineteen  years  ago  at  Rock  Elm,  Wisconsin.  She  bore  her  husband 
four  children : J.  L.,  who  is  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  and  farming  at  Rock 
Elm;  C.  D.,  who  also  follows  agriculture  and  sawmilling  in  that  city;  E.  L.,  our 
subject;  and  Eliza,  wife  of  George  Breed,  residing  at  Rock  Elm,  Wisconsin. 

E.  L.  Hawn  received  a common-school  education  and  subsequently  he  and 
D.  J.  Thompson  organized  a select  school  society,  which  he  attended  for  three 
seasons.  This  was  the  first  summer  school  organized  in  this  part  of  Wisconsin. 
At  the  age  of  twenty-one  he  engaged  in  business  with  his  father  and  brothers 
as  C.  A.  Hawn  & Sons.  In  1896  he  removed  to  Olivet,  Pierce  county,  Wisconsin, 
where  he  operated  a sawmill  successfully,  being  well  acquainted  with  all  details 
of  the  business  to  which  he  was  practically  born  and  with  which  he  had  ever 
been  connected  during  his  youth  and  young  manhood.  In  1902  Mr.  Hawn  came 
to  Chippewa  county,  buying  sixty-five  forties  of  timber  land.  He  then  organized 
the  Ruby  Lumber  Company,  of  which  he  became  president,  this  company  oper- 
ating on  an  extensive  scale  in  the  lumbering  business  until  they  discontinued 
activities  in  1909.  They  were  capitalized  for  fifty  thousand  dollars.  At  that 
time  this  township  was  nothing  but  a wilderness  and  not  one  rod  of  road  had 
been  built.  Around  their  mills  they  gradually  built  up  quite  a settlement  which 
at  one  time  contained  as  many  as  forty-five  families.  They  also  owned  and 
operated  a railway  from  Ruby  to  Arnold,  which  was  built  in  1902  and  discon- 
tinued in  April,  1913.  Mr.  Hawn  continues  alone  in  the  lumber  and  sawmill 
business.  He  has  since  been  instrumental  in  founding  the  village  of  Ruby,  which 


90 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


now  contains  thirty-six  families.  There  he  still  owns  five  forties  of  timber  land, 
which  he  is  at  present  clearing  in  order  to  devote  the  tract  to  agricultural  pur- 
poses. He  has  a fine  and  modern  home  and  prosperity  has  been  the  result  of 
his  incessant  labors. 

On  December  2 5,  1884,  at  Boardman,  St.  Croix  county,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Hawn 
was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Emma  Melcher,  a native  of  Dodge  county,  this 
state,  and  a daughter  of  Fred  Melcher,  a very  early  settler  of  that  county  and 
a carpenter  by  trade.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hawn  have  one  daughter,  Ruby,  for  whom 
the  settlement  in  which  they  live  was  named.  She  was  at  that  time  a little  girl 
of  but  five  years  but  has  grown  to  be  an  accomplished  young  lady  of  seventeen. 
While  in  Pierce  county,  Mr.  Hawn  was  nominated  on  the  prohibition  ticket  for 
clerk  of  the  courts,  was  subsequently  indorsed  by  the  republicans  and  lastly 
elected  by  all  three  parties.  He  was  only  twenty-one  years  of  age  at  the  time 
and  served  for  two  years.  Fraternally  he  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America. 
Mr.  Hawn  enjoys  in  large  measure  the  good-will  and  respect  of  his  neighbors 
and  friends,  who  admire  him  for  his  indomitable  courage  and  incessant  industry. 
These  qualities  have  brought  him  the  financial  independence  which  he  now  enjoys 
and  his  success  is  therefore  highly  merited. 


CHARLES  AMUNDSON. 

A well  improved  farm  of  eighty  acres,  located  on  section  5,  Sigel  township, 
has  been  the  home  of  Charles  Amundson  since  1893.  He  is  a native  of  Norway, 
his  birth  having  there  occurred  August  6,  1867.  He  is  the  second  in  order  of 
birth  in  a family  of  eight  children,  whose  parents  are  Amun  and  Bertha  (Peter- 
son) Amundson  the  former  born  in  Norway,  about  1840,  and  the  latter  in 
1845.  The  father  emigrated  to  the  new  world  in  1869,  locating  in  Wiscon- 
sin, and  in  1882  he  made  his  way  to  Chippewa  county,  and  bought  a tract  of  wild 
land,  which  he  cleared  and  developed  and  on  which  he  erected  a log  house. 
This  primitive  structure  continued  to  serve  as  the  family  home  for  ten  years, 
when  Mr.  Amundson  erected  a more  modern  and  comfortable  residence.  Both 
still  survive  and  are  residents  of  Sigel  township.  Their  children,  eight  in  number, 
still  survive  and  are  as  follows : Mathew,  Charles,  Albert,  Peter,  Emma,  Otto, 
Dora  and  Jennie. 

Charles  Amundson  was  reared  to  the  pursuits  of  farm  life,  assisting  his 
father  on  the  homestead  during  the  spring  and  summer  months,  while  in  the 
winter  seasons  he  attended  the  district  schools  to  his  sixteenth  year.  He  was 
then  employed  in  various  ways  until  1893,  when  he  purchased  his  present  farm 
of  eighty  acres,  situated  on  section  5,  Sigel  township,  and  to  that  he  has  since 
given  his  time  and  attention,  and  now  has  a well  developed  tract.  He  erected 
a modern  home  in  1903,  and  he  has  likewise  erected  all  the  outbuildings  which 
are  seen  on  the  place.  His  principal  crops  are  hay,  corn,  oats  and  potatoes  and 
he  also  specializes  in  dairying. 

Mr.  Amundson  has  been  married  twice.  His  first  union  was  with  Miss  Caro- 
line Jurgerson,  by  whom  he  had  two  children,  Olga,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


91 


The  wife  and  mother  passed  away  in  1904,  and  on  the  15th  of  December,  1906, 
Mr.  Amundson  was  married  to  Mary  Johnson,  by  whom  he  has  three  children, 
Jalmer,  Alof  and  Hilda. 

Mr.  Amundson  is  a republican  in  his  political  views  and  his  religious  faith 
is  indicated  by  his  membership  n the  United  Lutheran  church,  while  his  frater- 
nal relations  are  with  the  St.  Olaf  Lodge,  No.  26  I.  S.  W.  A.  Both  he  and 
his  wife  have  a wide  circle  of  friends  who  enjoy  the  hospitality  of  their  pleas- 
ant home. 


NICHOLAS  BOWE. 

\ 

Nicholas  Bowe  is  one  of  the  prosperous  agriculturists  of  Tilden  township, 
Chippewa  county,  where  he  owns  a highly  cultivated  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
twenty  acres  on  section  26  on  which  he  resides.  He  also  holds  title  to  another 
tract  of  land  equal  in  size  on  section  28.  Mr.  Bowe  came  to  this  county  in  1866, 
from  Germany,  where  he  was  born  in  Berlinge,  in  the  Rhine  province,  Prussia, 
April  11,  1841.  He  is  a son  of  John  and  Margarete  (Casper)  Bowe,  who  were 
farming  people  in  the  old  country,  where  both  have  passed  away  and  are  buried 
in  the  village  of  Kirchweiler,  Rhine  province,  Prussia. 

Nicholas  Bowe  received  his  education  in  his  native  country  and  after  leaving 
school  took  up  the  trade  of  a shoemaker,  later  serving  his  obligatory  term  in 
the  army.  While  a soldier  he  was  stationed  in  the  fortress  of  Coblenz  during 
the  time  of  the  war  with  Denmark  in  1864.  After  coming  to  Chippewa  county, 
Mr.  Bowe  worked  as  a farm  hand  on  different  farms  until  1870,  when  he  settled 
in  the  woods  upon  land  which  he  developed  into  his  present  farm.  Overcoming 
hardships  and  enduring  all  privations  incident  to  pioneer  life,  he  succeeded  by 
means  of  determination,  energy  and  industry.  Gradually  he  cleared  his  land 
and  put  it  under  cultivation,  tract  by  tract,  and  has  now  one  hundred  acres  in 
bearing.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  also  gives  considerable  attention  to 
stock-raising,  keeping  a goodly  number  of  cattle  and  other  live  stock.  Beside 
this  farm  Mr.  Bowe  also  owns  another  tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  located  on  section  28.  Mr.  Bowe  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  on  the 
property  on  which  he  resides  and  their  substantial  appearance  speaks  well  for 
the  careful  management  of  the  owner.  He  is  modern  and  up-to-date  in  his 
methods  and  the  latest  farm  machinery  is  employed  in  the  cultivation  of  his  acres. 

In  St.  Mary’s  church  at  Chippewa  Falls,  on  October  5,  1870,  Mr.  Bowe  was 
wedded  to  Miss  Katherina  Semon,  a daughter  of  Otto  and  Barbara  (Kreck) 
Semon,  the  former  of  whom  was  a pioneer  farmer  who  created,  out  of  a wilder- 
ness, a rich  productive  farm,  upon  which  both  he  and  his  wife  passed  away. 
They  were  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery.  They  were  also  natives  of  Germany 
and  came  to  America  the  year  of  their  marriage  in  1852.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bowe 
became  the  parents  of  eleven  children:  Otto,  who  farms  in  Tilden  township; 
Maria  Magdelena,  who  married  Nicholas  Mayer,  an  agriculturist  of  Tilden  town- 
ship; Christina,  who  died  June  28,  1895,  at  the  age  of  eighteen  years,  and  is 
buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery;  Wilhelm,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  on  some 
land  which  belongs  to  his  father:  Jacob,  who  assists  the  father  in  the  cultivation 


92 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  the  home  farm;  Fredericka,  who  married  Anton  Kreiling,  of  Chippewa  Falls ; 
Anna  Maria,  the  wife  of  Joseph  Price,  who  is  engaged  in  the  blacksmith  busi- 
ness at  Chippewa  Falls;  Margaret,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Ludwig,  who  died  in 
1893  and  is  buried  in  Tilden;  Francis,  helping  in  the  cultivation  of  the  home 
farm ; and  August,  attending  school. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bowe  are  devout  members  of  the  St.  Charles  Catholic  church, 
of  Chippewa  Falls,  in  the  work  of  which  they  take  an  active  interest.  Polit- 
ically he  is  a democrat  and,  interested  in  the  good  roads  movement,  has  served 
for  five  years  as  road  commissioner.  Although  he  has  passed  his  seventieth  year, 
Mr.  Bowe  is  still  active  in  his  life  work,  carefully  looking  after  his  farming 
interests.  He  is  highly  respected  by  all  who  know  him  for  the  high  qualities 
of  his  mind  and  character,  which  have  been  instrumental  in  making  his  success 
possible. 

Jacob  Bowe,  who  assists  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm,  was  born  on 
June  9,  1882,  and  received  his  education  at  Chippewa  Falls,  being  a pupil  in 
the  German  Catholic  school  of  lhat  city.  He  left  this  institution  at  the  age  of 
fourteen  and  has  since  given  his  sole  attention  to  the  cultivation  of  the  home 
farm,  in  which  he  ably  assists  his  father.  He  was  married  on  September  27, 
1910,  in  Chippewa  Falls,  to  Miss  Josephine  Tousaint,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Paul  Tousaint,  both  of  whom  passed  away  in  the  old  country,  finding  their 
last  resting  place  in  the  cemetery  of  Benaz  in  the  grand  duchy  of  Luxemburg. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jacob  Bowe  have  one  daughter,  Katherine  L.  Both  are  poular 
with  the  younger  people  of  their  locality  and  are  highly  regarded  by  all  who 
know  them. 


R.  W.  EICKERSTAFF. 

Among  the  well-to-do  agriculturists  of  Cleveland  township,  Chippewa  county, 
is  numbered  R.  W.  Bickerstaff,  who  here  operates  a profitable  farm  comprising 
eighty  acres.  He  was  born  in  Crawford  county,  Pennsylvania,  on  May  28,  1876, 
his  parents  being  William  and  Jane  (Adams)  Bickerstaff,  both  natives  of  the 
Keystone  state.  The  father  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1884  and  settled  on 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  17,  township  31,  range  7. 
For  a number  of  years  he  gave  his  best  efforts  to  improving  this  property,  but 
now  he  and  his  wife  make  their  home  in  Bloomer,  this  state.  They  are  the 
parents  of  thirteen  children. 

R.  W.  Bickerstaff  was  reared  under  the  parental  roof  and  on  his  father's 
farm  early  became  acquainted  with  efficient  agricultural  methods.  His  school 
advantages  consisted  of  a common-school  education.  At  the  age  of  twenty-four 
he  purchased  from  his  father  eighty  acres  of  land,  which  were  then  entirely 
unimproved.  He  now,  however,  has  a good  set  of  buildings  upon  this  land, 
which  he  has  largely  cleared  and  where  he  engages  in  general  farming,  turning 
his  labors  to  good  account. 

In  this  county  Mr.  Bickerstaff  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Florence 
Kingman,  who  was  born  in  Chippewa  Falls,  a daughter  of  Lon  Kingman,  who 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


93 


now  lives  at  Thorp,  Wisconsin.  Of  this  union  two  children  were  born  who  are 
now  living,  Leland  and  Lester.  One  son,  Cleff,  has  passed  away. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bickerstaff  are  devout  members  of  the  Baptist  church  at  Eau 
Claire.  He  served  in  1912  as  township  supervisor,  was  a member  of  the  school 
board  for  four  years  and  also  held  the  office  of  president  of  that  body.  He 
gives  his  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Fraternally  he  is  a member  of 
the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  Mr.  Bickerstaff  enjoys  the  esteem  and  regard 
of  all  who  know  him,  for  he  has  shown  himself  to  be  a substantial  citizen  of 
high  qualities  of  mind  and  character.  He  is  interested  in  all  that  pertains  to 
the  public  welfare  and  stands  ever  ready  to  give  of  his  means  and  time  in  sup- 
port of  worthy  enterprises  that  make  for  public  progress  and  advancement. 


FRANK  S.  STEINMETZ. 

With  farm  work  Frank  S.  Steinmetz  has  been  closely  identified  from  the 
time  that  he  was  old  enough  to  handle  the  plow  and  prosperity  has  rewarded  his 
efforts,  so  that  he  is  now  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  acres  on 
section  22,  Tilden  township.  The  residence  which  he  occupies  was  erected  more 
than  a half  century  ago  but  he  has  remodeled  it  and  converted  it  into  a modern 
home.  In  the  rear  stand  substantial  barns  and  outbuildings  and  these  in  turn 
are  surrounded  by  well  kept  fields,  making  his  farm  one  of  attractive  appearance. 

Mr.  Steinmetz  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county,  born  October  31,  1868,  and 
is  a son  of  Stephen  and  Christiana  (Wachter)  Steinmetz.  The  father  arrived 
in  this  county  in  1851,  in  company  with  his  parents,  who  had  previously  lived 
for  a time  in  Milwaukee.  He  was  twelve  years  of  age  when  the  family  home 
was  established  in  this  county.  They  were  among  the  earliest  settlers  and  their 
dwelling  stood  in  the  midst  of  an  almost  trackless  wilderness.  The  Indians 
roamed  through  the  forests  and  the  trees  stood  in  their  primeval  strength.  There 
was  little  to  show  that  the  work  of  civilization  and  progress  was  soon  to  convert 
this  into  a productive  region,  inhabited  by  a contented  and  prosperous  people. 
Stephen  Steinmetz  and  his  father  cleared  the  farm,  upon  which  the  former  con- 
tinued to  make  his  home  and  reared  his  family.  He  is  today  one  of  the  most 
respected  and  valued  of  the  pioneer  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and  has  a wide 
acquaintance  in  this  part  of  the  state.  He  has  been  a member  of  the  board  of 
Tilden  and  has  taken  an  active  interest  in  all  that  has  per.tained  to  the  public 
welfare.  He  and  his  wife  now  reside  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  are  among  the 
most  highly  esteemed  people  of  the  community. 

Frank  S.  Steinmetz  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools,  but  at 
the  age  of  fourteen  years  put  aside  his  text-books  in  order  to  assist  his  father 
on  the  farm.  Through  eleven  winter  seasons  he  worked  in  the  lumber  woods 
and  at  the  end  of  that  time  he  received  from  his  father  a gift  of  eighty  acres. 
The  remainder  of  his  land  he  has  acquired  by  purchase  from  time  to  time  until 
he  is  now  the  owner  of  an  excellent  tract  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  acres, 
constituting  one  of  the  valuable  farms  of  the  locality.  Mr.  Steinmetz  carries 
on  general  agricultural  pursuits,  raising  the  crops  best  adapted  to  soil  and  climate 
and  also  keeping  much  stock.  He  makes  a specialty  of  raising  horses  and  handles 


94 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


those  of  good  grade.  Both  branches  of  his  business  are  carefully  conducted  and 
have  brought  him  substantial  returns.  Ample  shelter  is  provided  for  grain  and 
stock  in  large  barns  and  sheds  and  the  latest  improved  machinery  facilitates  the 
work  of  the  fields.  In  fact  the  farm  is  splendidly  equipped  with  modern  acces- 
sories and  everything  about  the  place  indicates  the  progressive  spirit  of  the  owner. 

On  the  2d  of  October,  1894,  in  the  Lutheran  church  of  Tilden  township,  was 
celebrated  the  marriage  of  Mr.  Steinmetz  and  Miss  Clara  Bornemann,  a daughter 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Theodore  Bornemann,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  of  this 
county,  who,  having  passed  away,  is  laid  to  rest  in  the  cemetery  at  Bloomer. 
His  widow,  after  a period  of  two  years,  married  William  Schroeder.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Steinmetz  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children : Laura,  at  home ; 
Florence,  Arthur  and  Theodore,  who  are  attending  school ; and  Wallace,  five 
years  of  age,  who  completes  the  family. 

Mr.  Steinmetz  votes  with  the  republican  party  and  has  served  as  a member 
of  the  town  board.  He  is  now  treasurer  of  the  school  board  and  the  cause  of 
education  finds  in  him  a warm  friend,  loyal  to  the  best  interests  of  the  schools. 
Fraternally  he  is  connected  with  the  Owls  and  his  religious  faith  is  that  of  the 
German  Lutheran  church.  High  principles  of  manhood  and  citizenship  have 
actuated  him  in  all  the  relations  of  life  and  his  genuine  worth  commands  for 
him  the  confidence,  esteem  and  good-will  of  those  among  whom  his  entire  life 
has  been  passed.  As  one  of  the  native  sons  of  the  county,  he  has  lived  to  see 
many  changes  here,  and  at  all  times  has  borne  his  part  in  the  work  of  general 
progress  and  improvement. 


A.  R.  GWIN. 

A.  R.  Gwin  has  been  engaged  in  farming  upon  his  eighty-acre  farm  in  Cleve- 
land township  for  over  twenty  years,  and  as  time  has  passed  prosperity  has  come 
to  him,  for  his  property  is  now  conceded  to  be  one  of  the  best  improved  in  this 
section,  boasting  of  a fine  house  and  the  best  and  largest  barn  in  the  township. 
Mr.  Gwin  engages  in  general  farming,  following  modern  and  progressive  methods, 
and  these,  in  combination  with  his  natural  industry  and  energy,  have  won  him 
a place  among  the  substantial  men  of  Chippewa  county. 

Born  in  Lawrence  county,  Pennsylvania,  February  9,  1S53,  A.  R.  Gwin  is 
a son  of  Robert  P.  and  Isabel  (McKinley)  Gwin,  the  latter  a distant  relative 
of  the  late  martyred  president,  William  McKinley.  Robert  P.  Gwin  was  born 
May  11,  1828,  and  died  March  13,  1903.  He  was  a carpenter  by  trade  and 
highly  respected  in  his  home  community.  His  wife  was  born  on  July  21,  1826, 
and  survived  her  husband  about  five  years,  passing  away  on  February  4,  1908. 
The  Gwin  family  are  of  old  Scotch  ancestry. 

A.  R.  Gwin  attended  school  in  Lawrence  county,  Pennsylvania,  and  then 
worked  on  the  home  farm,  assisting  his  father.  Later  he  found  employment  in 
the  stone  quarries  and  lime  kilns,  but  after  his  marriage,  in  1880,  settled  on  a 
rented  farm,  which  he  cultivated  until  1884.  He  then  moved  with  his  family 
to  Youngstown,  Ohio,  and  there  engaged  in  bridge  and  car  work  until  about 
1890  or  1891,  when  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  for  the  first  year  or  two 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


95 


worked  in  the  woods  or  as  a farm  hand.  Being  careful  of  his  earnings,  he  was 
enabled  in  1892  to  acquire  eighty  acres  of  slightly  improved  land,  on  nine  acres 
of  which  the  trees  had  been  felled.  However,  there  were  no  fences  or  buildings 
on  the  land.  Setting  himself  to  the  task  of  pioneering  and  clearing  his  acres, 
he  has  placed  his  land  under  cultivation  and  annual  harvests  have  brought  pros- 
perity to  him.  Mr.  Gwin  now  owns  one  of  the  finest  homes  in  the  township, 
has  substantial  barns  upon  his  land  and  has  installed  such  modern  machinery  as 
is  considered  indispensable  by  the  up-to-date  agriculturist.  He  engages  in  gen- 
eral farming  and  fruit  raising,  having  one  of  the  finest  orchards  in  the  county, 
and  is  modern  and  progressive  in  all  his  methods. 

On  May  13,  1880,  in  Wampum,  Pennsylvania,  Mr.  Gwin  was  married  to 
Miss  Ella  Kitch,  of  Mercer  county,  Pennsylvania,  a daughter  of  John  M.  and 
Elizabeth  (McClary)  Kitch.  The  Kitch  family  is  of  German  descent,  while  the 
McClary’s  are  Irish.  John  M.  Kitch  was  a harness,  saddle  and  glove  maker 
by  occupation.  He  died  February  25,  1869,  at  the  comparative  early  age  of 
thirty-seven,  while  his  wife  died  April  2,  1877,  aged  forty-six  years.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Gwin  are  the  parents  of  three  children:  Zona  Belle,  the  wife  of  Edward 
Foster,  of  Chippewa  county;  Tirza  H.,  at  home;  and  Paul  L.,  who  follows  rail- 
roading in  Pennsylvania.  The  two  daughters  both  have  been  successful  as  school 
teachers  in  this  county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gwin  also  have  a foster  daughter,  Alvina 
Bergeson,  whom  they  have  reared  since  nine  years  of  age.  Mrs.  Gwin,  her  two 
daughters,  son  and  foster  daughter  are  members  of  the  Congregational  church. 

A substantial  citizen,  Mr.  Gwin  takes  interest  in  public  affairs  and  for  five 
years  served  as  township  clerk.  He  also  has  been  for  one  term  clerk  of  the  local 
school  board.  He  gives  his  allegiance  to  the  republican  party,  in  the  platform  of 
which  he  believes  are  embodied  the  best  measures  for  good  government.  He 
enjoys  to  a large  degree  the  respect  and  good-will  of  his  neighbors,  who  esteem 
in  him  an  earnest,  industrious,  energetic  man  who  has  not  only  encompassed 
individual  prosperity  but  by  his  labors  has  contributed  toward  bringing  about 
the  prosperous  conditions  that  now  prevail  in  this  section. 


WILLIAM  S IE  PERT. 

William  Siepert  owns  a tract  of  eighty  acres  and  also  cultivates  a tract  of 
similar  size  belonging  to  his  wife.  Their  home  is  situated  on  section  21,  Tilden 
township,  not  far  from  Chippewa  Falls.  More  than  a third  of  a century  has  come 
and  gone  since  William  Siepert  arrived  in  that  community,  having  emigrated 
from  Germany  in  1879.  He  was  born  in  Pomerania,  Prussia,  on  the  16th  of 
January,  1849,  and  is  a son  of  Gottfried  and  Henrietta  (Zimmerman)  Siepert, 
both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  laid  to  rest  at  Grabuitzfelde,  Saatzig, 
Pomerania. 

After  acquiring  his  education  in  the  schools  of  his  native  country,  William 
Siepert  assisted  his  father  in  the  farm  work  for  a time  and  then  started  out 
independently,  after  which  he  supported  his  mother.  Favorable  reports  reached 
him  concerning  the  new  world  and  its  opportunities,  and  thinking  that  he  might 
better  his  financial  condition  on  this  side  the  Atlantic  he  came  to  the  United 


96 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


States  and  made  his  way  to  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin.  Here  he  began  grub' 
bing  trees  and  was  thus  employed  for  three  and  a half  years,  but  he  was 
ambitious  to  engage  in  business  on  his  own  account  and  at  the  end  of  that  time; 
rented  a farm.  He  continued  to  cultivate  leased  land  for  ten  years  before  he 
was  able  to  purchase  a farm.  The  land  which  he  bought  was  a wooded  wilder- 
ness but  he  has  actively  and  persistently  continued  his  labors  until  of  the  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  owned  by  himself  and  wife,  one  hundred  acres  are  now 
under  cultivation.  He  carries  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  and  keeps  con- 
siderable live  stock.  The  farm  is  most  attractive  in  its  appearance,  Mr.  Siepert 
having  made  many  modern  improvements  thereon,  including  the  erection  of 
a comfortable  and  commodious  residence.  He  is  determined  and  energetic,  carry- 
ing forward  to  successful  completion  whatever  he  undertakes,  and  he  combines 
scientific  ideas  with  practical  methods. 

Mr.  Siepert  was  married  in  Tilden  township,  on  the  6th  of  December,  1882, 
to  Miss  Magdalene  Hennemann,  a daughter  of  William  and  Dorothea  (Maxiener) 
Hennemann.  Mrs.  Siepert  was  the  first  white  child  born  in  this  district  and  is 
today  the  oldest  living  woman  in  this  district  who  was  born  here.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Siepert  have  three  children : Albert,  who  is  a teacher  of  manual  training  in 
South  Carolina;  Frederick  W.,  who  completed  his  education  in  the  Dunn  County 
College  of  Agriculture  and  is  now  assisting  his  father  on  the  home  farm ; and 
Clara  K.,  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school  and  a teacher  in  the 
county  public  schools. 

The  family  attend  the  German  Methodist  church,  in  which  the  parents  hold 
membership.  Mr.  Siepert  gives  his  political  support  to  the  progressive  party. 
He  does  not  believe  in  the  blind  following  of  party  leaders,  but  studies  vital 
questions  for  himself  and  votes  according  to  the  dictates  of  his  judgment.  He 
is  public-spirited  in  citizenship  and  his  indorsement  of  any  measure  indicates, 
his  firm  belief  in  it. 


JOHN  M.  ANDREJESKI. 

John  M.  Andrejeski  is  president  of  the  Chippewa  Shoe  Manufacturing  Com- 
pany and  as  such  prominently  connected  with  industrial  interests  of  Chippewa 
Falls.  He  is  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  Schubin,  in  the  province  of  Posen, 
June  2,  1868,  a son  of  Martin  and  Emily  (Froeley)  Andrejeski.  The  father 
came  to  America  and  settled  in  Berlin,  Wisconsin,  where  he  follows  the  shoe- 
making trade. 

John  M.  Andrejeski  acquired  his  early  education  in  Germany,  completing 
his  studies  in  Wisconsin.  He  began  his  active  career  in  his  father’s  shoemaking 
establishment,  where  he  remained  until  he  was  twenty-one  years  of  age,  after 
which  he  engaged  in  mechanical  shoemaking  independently  until  1900.  He 
then  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  formed  a partnership  with  J.  B.  Piotrowski 
in  the  shoe  manufacturing  business.  They  started  in  a small  way,  conducting 
their  factory  at  Nos.  12,  14  and  16  East  Spring  street,  where  their  enterprise 
furnished  employment  to  about  seven  people.  Success  came  rapidly,  however, 
and  the  business  soon  outgrew  the  original  quarters.  The  partners  then  erected 


JOHN  M.  ANDREJESK 1 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


99 


iheir  present  modern  plant  which  is  five  stories  high  and  one  hundred  and 
twenty-four  by  sixty-three  feet  in  dimensions,  one  of  the  largest  shoe  manu- 
facturing concerns  in  Chippewa  county.  Three  hundred  people  are  employed 
therein  and  the  daily  output  of  shoes  is  very  large,  the  company’s  selling  terri- 
tory extending  to  all  parts  of  the  United  States.  Much  of  the  credit  for  the 
remarkable  growth  and  development  of  the  concern  is  due  to  Mr.  Andrejeski, 
who  since  its  organization  has  given  practically  all  of  his  time  to  its -affairs,  dis- 
playing excellent  organizing  and  administrative  ability  and  the  energy,  resource- 
fulness and  well  timed  aggressiveness  necessary  for  success  in  the  business 
field. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  November  17,  1903,  Mr.  Andrejeski  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Margaret  Anderson,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  C.  P.  Ander- 
son, of  Medford,  Wisconsin.  The  father  was  a pioneer  farmer  in  that  vicinity 
and  is  still  residing  there  with  his  family.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Andrejeski  have  three 
children  : Floyd  J.  and  Lorraine  M.,  who  are  attending  school ; and  Carl  B. 

Mr.  Andrejeski  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus  and 
is  independent  in  his  political  views,  voting  for  the  man  whom  he  considers 
best  fitted  for  the  position  without  regard  to  party  lines.  A man  of  upright 
character  and  honorable  principles,  he  has  ever  conformed  to  a high  standard 
of  commercial  ethics  and  is  honored  and  respected  by  all  with  whom  he  has  come 
in  contact. 


CARL  DUENOW. 

Carl  Duenow,  an  enterprising  and  progressive  agriculturist,  whose  life  of 
activity  has  been  crowned  with  success,  owns  and  occupies  a farm  of  one  hundred 
and  twenty  acres  on  section  21,  Tilden  township.  He  has  lived  in  this  county 
for  more  than  a half  century  and  he  has  now  reached  the  age  of  seventy-nine 
years.  However,  he  still  gives  supervision  to  his  farm  work  and  it  is  well  known 
that  his  industry  and  intelligence  have  constituted  the  foundation  upon  which 
he  has  built  his  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  Pomerania,  Prussia,  October  26, 
1834,  and  is  a son  of  Gottlieb  and  Dorothea  Duenow,  both  of  whom  now  sleep 
in  the  Evangelical  cemetery  of  Tilden. 

In  his  native  country  Carl  Duenow  pursued  his  education,  but  his  opportuni- 
ties were  quite  limited.  He  began  earning  his  own  living  when  but  eight  years 
of  age  as  a herder  and  his  youth  was  a period  of  unremitting  toil.  In  1856,  he 
crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  new  world,  hoping  to  better  his  financial  conditions 
in  the  United  States  and  for  five  years  he  was  employed  in  different  sections 
of  Wisconsin.  He  carefully  saved  his  earnings  until  his  labor  and  economy 
had  brought  him  sufficient  capital  to  enable  him  to  purchase  one  hundred  and 
forty  acres  of  woodland  on  the  Yellow  river.  He  hewed  the  trees  and  built 
a log  house  and  other  necessary  farm  buildings.  Acre  after  acre  was  cleared, 
plowed  and  planted  and  in  time  he  gathered  good  crops  as  a reward  of  his 
labors.  He  lived  upon  his  original  farm  for  seven  and  one-half  years.  In  1869 
he  purchased  a part  of  his  present  farm  and  eventually  became  the  owner  of 

two  hundred  and  eighty  acres  in  the  Henneman  settlement,  starting  with  one 
voi.  n— 6 


100 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


hundred  and  sixty  acres,  which  he  improved.  He  remained  upon  that  farm  for 
thirty-two  years  before  removing  to  his  present  place  on  section  21,  Tilden  town- 
ship, and  during  the  period  of  almost  one-third  of  a century  spent  in  the  Henne- 
man  settlement,  he  won  substantial  success  through  his  wisely  directed  efforts. 

His  present  farm  was  largely  in  a state  of  wilderness  when  it  came  into  his 
possession,  but  he  cleared  and  cultivated  it  and  today  has  a valuable  and  well 
improved  property.  He  has  built  three  residences  in  this  county  and  has  borne 
his  full  share  in  the  arduous  task  of  transforming  the  forest  lands  into  produc- 
tive fields.  When  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  he  made  the  journey  with  oxen 
from  Washington  county  and  it  was  after  three  weeks  of  slow  and  tedious  travel- 
ing that  he  reached  his  destination.  He  broke  his  first  land  with  oxen  and  the 
farm  machinery  was  of  a primitive  character.  Much  of  the  work  that  is  today 
accomplished  with  improved  agricultural  implements  then  had  to  be  done  by 
hand.  At  all  times  Mr.  Duenow  had  the  assistance  and  encouragement  of  a 
faithful  wife  who  has  indeed  been  a helpmate  to  him. 

It  was  on  the  29th  of  August,  1861,  that  Mr.  Duenow  was  married  to 
Miss  Augustina  Harck,  daughter  of  Christian  F.  and  Wilhelmina  Harck,  both  of 
whom  have  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Duenow  celebrated  their  golden  wedding, 
on  which  occasion  ninety  of  their  descendants  were  present.  They  had  a family 
of  nine  children:  Wilhelm,  who  died  in  October,  1910,  at  the  age  of  thirty-five 
years;  Minnie,  the  widow  of  William  Wesenberg,  who  was  a farmer  of  Wash- 
ington county,  Wisconsin ; Hannah,  the  wife  of  Earnest  Rank,  a farmer  of 
Cooks  Valley,  this  county ; Heinrich,  a farmer  living  in  the  vicinity  of  his  father’s 
home;  Anna,  who  is  residing  in  California;  Augusta,  who  makes  her  home  with 
her  brother,  Heinrich;  Emma,  also  in  California;  Louisa,  at  home;  and  Adolph, 
who  is  assisting  his  father  in  the  work  of  the  farm. 

Mr.  Duenow  votes  with  the  republican  party  which  he  has  supported  since 
he  became  a naturalized  American  citizen.  The  right  of  franchise  was  conferred 
him  about  the  time  the  party  elected  its  first  president,  and  he  has  always  re- 
mained one  of  its  strong  adherents  to  the  present  time.  His  life  exemplifies 
his  religious  faith,  which  is  that  of  the  German  Methodist  church. 

He  has  reached  the  age  of  seventy-nine  years  and  received  the  veneration 
and  respect  which  should  ever  be  accorded  those  who  have  long  traveled  life's 
journey  and  whose  record  is  worthy  of  emulation.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Duenow  are 
today  among  the  best-known  residents  of  Tilden  township,  and  as  pioneer  set- 
tlers, well  deserve  mention  in  this  volume. 


LOUIS  HOEL. 

Louis  Hoel,  a well  known  farmer  of  Cleveland  township,  is  the  owner  of 
ninety  acres  of  land  on  section  28,  township  31,  range  7.  His  birth  occurred  in 
Norway  on  the  4th  of  April,  1875,  his  parents  being  Edward  and  Carrie  Hoel, 
who  are  still  residents  of  that  country.  He  spent  the  first  seventeen  years  of 
his  life  in  Norway  and  in  1892  emigated  to  the  United  States,  locating  in  North 
Dakota,  where  he  remained,  for  a year  and  a half.  On  the  expiration  of  that 
period  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin,  and  secured  employment  as  a 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


101 


lumber  jack,  in  which  line  of  work  he  has  been  largely  engaged  to  the  present 
time.  In  1902  he  purchased  ninety  acres  of  land  on  section  28,  township  31, 
range  7,  the  only  improvements  on  the  property  being  a small  house  and  a wood- 
shed. The  trees  had  been  cut  down  from  an  acre  and  a half,  but  the  stumps 
were  still  standing.  Mr.  Hoel  has  cleared  about  twenty  acres  of  the  place,  has 
enlarged  the  residence  and  erected  a new  barn.  He  carries  on  general  agri- 
cultural pursuits  during  the  summer  seasons  and  in  the  winter  works  in  the  lum- 
ber woods  in  order  to  augment  his  income. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Hoel  chose  Miss 
Ethel  Butterfield,  a native  of  Jackson  county,  Wisconsin.  They  were  married 
on  October  13,  1900,  at  Chippewa  Falls.  Mrs.  Hoel  is  a daughter  of  William 
and  Edith  (Austen)  Butterfield,  natives  of  Wisconsin.  The  father  died  when 
she  was  but  two  years  of  age  and  the  mother  about  fifteen  years  later.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Hoel  have  four  children : Herbert,  Edward  Allen,  Hazel  Bernice  and 
Ray  Cleo. 

Mr.  Hoel  is  a republican  in  politics  and  acted  as  town  assessor  during  1909 
and  19TO,  while  at  one  time  he  also  served  as  clerk  of  the  school  board.  His 
religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  an  intelligent,  hard-working, 
energetic  man  who  has  succeeded  by  his  own  efforts,  and  is  known  as  one  of 
the  substantial  citizens  of  Cleveland  township. 


NATHAN  DONALDSON. 

The  home  of  Nathan  Donaldson  is  a farm  of  forty  acres  on  section  17,  Tilden 
township.  His  residence  in  Chippewa  county  covers  all  of  the  intervening 
years  from  1866,  to  the  present  time,  and  therefore  he  has  witnessed  many  of 
the  changes  which  have  led  to  the  present  prosperous  condition  of  the  district. 
He  is  of  Canadian  birth,  the  place  of  his  nativity  being  St.  John,  New  Bruns- 
wick, and  the  date  September  12,  1847. » His  father,  Nathan  Donaldson,  Sr., 
was  a logger  and  pilot  on  the  St.  Lawrence  river.  He  died  in  1877  at  the  age 
of  seventy-four  years,  having  for  only  a brief  period  survived  his  wife,  who 
passed  away  in  September,  1876,  at  the  age  of  seventy.  She  bore  the  maiden 
name  of  Luna  Hazel.  When  called  to  their  final  rest,  both  the  father  and 
mother  were  interred  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery  at  Eau  Claire. 

After  attending  the  public  schools  of  his  native  province  until  fourteen  years 
of  age,  Nathan  Donaldson,  Jr.,  assisted  his  father  on  the  farm,  giving  his  atten- 
tion to  agricultural  pursuits  until  thirty  years  of  age.  He  was  next  employed 
in  a sawmill  in  Eau  Claire  and  at  Rice  Lake  for  seven  years,  and  during  the 
seasons  for  twenty-nine  years  he  worked  in  the  lumber  woods  driving  teams, 
while  during  the  spring  months  for  sixteen  years  he  was  a log  driver  on  the 
river.  He  also  did  carpenter  work  and  throughout  these  years  there  were  few 
leisure  hours  in  his  career.  He  realized  that  if  success  should  be  his  it  must  come 
as  the  direct  result  of  indefatigable  industry  and  persistent  purpose.  In  1889 
he  settled  on  a farm  on  section  17,  Tilden  township,  which  at  that  time  was 
covered  with  a dense  growth  of  timber.  The  task  of  clearing  it  was  a difficult 
one,  but  he  resolutely  undertook  the  work  and  has  brought  thirty-five  acres 


102 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


under  cultivation.  He  is  now  engaged  in  general  farming  and  is  making  his 
fields  bring  forth  rich  returns. 

Mr.  Donaldson  was  married  in  Eau  Claire,  on  the  22d  of  March,  1881,  his 
union  being  with  Miss  Mary  H.  Oehman,  a daughter  of  Nicholas  and  Gertrude 
(Metzger)  Oehman,  who  were  pioneers  of  Chippewa  county,  but  are  now 
deceased.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Donaldson  had  five  children,  but  one  of  the  number 
died  in  infancy.  The  others  are : Charles,  a farmer  residing  in  Minnesota ; 
William,  who  follows  farming  in  Bloomer  township ; Annie,  the  wife  of  Anton 
Rufif,  a farmer  of  Brush  Prairie;  and  Ida,  the  wife  of  Fred  Fitzpatrick,  an 
expressman  of  Eau  Claire. 

Mr.  Donaldson  votes  with  the  democratic  party  and  is  interested  in  its 
success  and  active  in  its  work.  He  has  served  as  a member  of  the  county  board 
and  as  road  commissioner.  He  and  his  wife  belong  to  St.  Peter’s  Catholic 
church  at  Tilden,  and  he  is  a member  of  the  Order  of  Owls.  The  rules  which 
govern  his  conduct  are  such  as  measure  up  to  high  standards  and  his  fidelity  to 
these  rules  has  made  him  worthy  of  the  high  respect  and  confidence  in  which  he 
is  uniformly  held. 


JOHN  S.  MELVILLE. 

John  S.  Melville,  a representative  of  one  of  the  most  honored  pioneer 
families  of  Chippewa  county  and  closely  connected  with  agricultural  interests 
of  Lafayette  township  as  the  owner  of  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  acres  on  sec- 
tion 15,  was  born  in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  July  30,  1853.  He  is  a son  of 
William  and  Sarah  C.  (Thomas)  Melville,  pioneers  of  Chippewa  county. 

The  father  settled  in  Chippewa  Falls  when  there  were  only  a few  houses  in 
the  place  besides  the  tepees  occupied  by  Indians.  The  surrounding  country  was 
a dense  wilderness  where  frontier  conditions  prevailed  and  where  all  the  hard- 
ships of  pioneer  life  confronted  the  settler.  William  Melville  founded  what  is 
now  known  as  the  Melville  settlement,  a name  which  has  clung  to  it  through  the 
years  by  reason  of  the  fact  that  members  of  this  family  have  made  their  home 
there  since  the  establishment  of  the  community.  William  Melville  brought  a large 
tract  of  land  to  a high  state  of  cultivation  and  became  a prosperous,  progressive 
and  able  farmer.  He  took  a prominent  part  in  public  afifairs  and  was  honored 
by  his  fellow  citizens  by  election  to  various  township  offices,  in  all  of  which  he 
discharged  his  duties  capably  and  conscientiously.  He  was  a member  of  the 
first  jury  impaneled  in  this  county,  it  being  composed  mainly  of  business  men  on 
the  south  side  of  the  river,  which  portion  of  the  city  was  then  called  French- 
town.  His  death  occurred  July  15,  1906,  when  he  was  nearly  eighty-six  -years 
of  age.  He  had  long  survived  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in  1866.  Both  are 
buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery,  Chippewa  county. 

John  S.  Melville  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  continued  his  studies  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age,  although 
during  the  latter  part  of  this  time  he  spent  seven  months  in  each  year  assisting 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  remained 
at  home  until  he  was  twenty-one  years  of  age  and  upon  attaining  his  majority 
was  presented  by  his  father  with  an  eighty-acre  tract  of  land  in  Lafayette  town- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


103 


ship,  the  nucleus  of  his  present  farm.  From  time  to  time  he  added  to  his  hold- 
ings, acquiring  finally  three  hundred  acres,  a portion  of  which  he  has  divided 
among  his  children,  retaining  for  himself  one  hundred  acres  on  section  15.  Upon 
this  property  he  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  his  practical  and 
progressive  methods  have  been  rewarded  by  excellent  results.  Mr.  Melville 
erected  the  residence  which  is  now  upon  his  property  and  good  farm  buildings, 
all  of  which  he  keeps  in  excellent  repair.  By  untiring  and  well  directed  labor 
he  has  made  this  a valuable  and  productive  farm,  reflecting  everywhere  his 
careful  supervision  and  capable  management. 

In  Lafayette  township,  February  17,  1878,  Mr.  Melville  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Lizzie  E.  Ogden,  a daughter  of  Joseph  and  Fannie  (Livingston) 
Ogden.  Her  father  was  a soldier  of  the  Civil  war.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Melville  have 
three  children:  Carrie,  the  wife  of  B.  A.  Stone,  a farmer  in  Lafayette  township; 
Oliver  W.,  also  engaged  in  farming  in  that  township;  and  Roy  R.,  who  is 
assisting  his  father. 

Mr.  Melville  is  a devout  member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  is  a republi- 
can in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  interested  in  the  cause  of  education  and  active 
in  its  promotion,  having  served  as  director,  clerk  and  treasurer  of  the  school 
board.  He  has  been  loyal  in  his  advocacy  of  everything  pertaining  to  the  wel- 
fare of  the  county  and  has  made  many  substantial  contributions  to  development 
and  progress,  adding  by  his  upright  and  honorable  life  to  the  esteem  and  respect 
in  which  his  name  has  been  held  since  pioneer  times. 


FRANK  PETSKA,  Jr. 

Frank  Petska,  Jr.,  is  well  known  in  the  business  circles  of  Bloomer  where 
he  makes  his  home.  He  is  engaged  in  teaming  and  he  also  has  an  interest  in  a 
farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres.  He  was  born  in  this  locality  thirty-one 
years  ago  and  is  a son  of  Frank  Petska,  who  was  born  across  the  water,  but 
came  to  the  United  States  when  twenty-five  years  of  age.  He  journeyed  across 
the  country  until  he  reached  Wisconsin,  taking  up  his  abode  in  Chippewa  county 
where  he  engaged  in  farming.  He  now  lives  at  Taylors  Corners  where  he  con- 
ducts a road  house.  He  married  Lena  Eder  and  their  family  numbered  thirteen 
children. 

The  usual  experiences  of  the  farm  lad  came  to  Frank  Petska,  Jr.,  in  his 
youth,  his  time  being  divided  between  the  duties  of  the  schoolroom,  the  pleas- 
ures of  the  playground  and  the  work  of  the  fields.  When  his  school  days 
were  over  his  entire  attention  was  given  to  farm  work  on  the  old  homestead 
until  about  six  years  ago  when  he  came  to  Bloomer  and  has  since  engaged  in 
teaming.  He  is  usually  busy  at  this  work  and  his  patrons  find  him  thoroughly 
reliable  as  well  as  industrious  and  enterprising.  He  owns  the  home  place  in 
Bloomer  and  he  is  also  interested  in  the  old  home  farm  and  owns  an  interest 
in  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  east  of  Taylors  Corners. 

In  1905  Mr.  Petska  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Tillie  Miller  and  as 
the  years  have  gone  by  four  children  have  been  added  to  the  family,  Herbert, 
Lena,  Lucile  and  Eldon. 


104 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Petska  votes  with  the  republican  party  and  has  filled  the  offices  of  road- 
master  and  assessor,  in  which  connection  he  has  performed  his  duties  with 
promptness  and  fidelity.  He  belongs  to  the  Catholic  church  and  he  is  well  known 
in  the  county  where  he  has  a circle  of  friends  almost  coextensive  with  the  circle 
of  his  acquaintances. 


FRANK  J.  MAIER. 

Frank  J.  Maier  who  conducts  one  of  the  largest  and  most  up-to-date  black- 
smith shops  in  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Germany  in  1872  and  is  a son  of  Frank  J. 
Maier  also  a native  of  the  fatherland.  Mr.  Maier  of  this  review  remained  in 
Germany  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age  and  then  emigrated  to  America  where 
he  completed  his  education  and  afterwards  worked  at  various  occupations.  On 
the  4th  of  March,  1902,  he  opened  a blacksmith  shop  in  Bloomer  and  this  he  has 
since  conducted  with  gratifying  success.  He  owns  the  building,  which  is  the 
oldest  blacksmith  shop  in  the  town,  but  he  has  entirely  remodelled  it,  installing 
excellent  equipment  and  making  it  new  and  modern  in  every  particular.  Mr. 
Maier  carries  on  a horseshoeing  and  general  repair  business  and  has  met  with 
well  deserved  success  in  his  activities. 

Mr.  Maier  married  Miss  Theresa  Geisler  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  five  children:  Richard,  aged  seven;  Irene,  aged  five;  Florence,  aged  three; 
Rosalie,  aged  sixteen  months;  and  Frank  J.,  Jr.,  aged  seven  weeks.  The  family 
are  members  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  Mr.  Maier  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters.  He  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs 
and  interested  in  public  affairs,  although  he  is  not  active  as  an  office  seeker.  He 
is  a man  of  high  integrity  and  worth  and  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all 
who  are  in  any  way  associated  with  him. 


JOHN  SUNDET. 

John  Sundet,  following  mixed  farming  and  dairying  upon  eighty  acres  of 
land  on  section  15,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  in  Sundet,  Norway,  a com- 
munity named  in  honor  of  his  family,  on  the  12th  of  October,  1854.  He  is  a 
son  of  Ole  and  Martha  (Hogseth)  Sundet,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and 
are  buried  in  Fiskom,  Sundet,  Norway. 

John  Sundet  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father 
for  some  time  and  then  began  farming  independently,  operating  a tract  of  land 
in  Norway  until  he  came  to  America  in  1883.  He  first  settled  in  Grand  Rapids, 
Wisconsin,  where  he  worked  in  a sawmill  for  a time  and  later  in  the  lumber 
woods.  From  there  he  removed  to  Sawyer  county,  where  he  spent  nine  years, 
and  at  the  end  of  that  time  came  to  Chippewa  county,  where,  in  1896,  he  pur- 
chased his  present  farm.  At  that  time  it  was  entirely  unimproved,  there  being  no 
buildings  upon  the  place,  but  he  has  since  erected  a fine  residence  and  good  barns 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


105 


and  other  outbuildings,  steadily  carrying  forward  the  work  of  development  and 
making  the  place  a model  and  valuable  farm.  For  thirty  years  he  has  engaged  in 
mixed  farming  and  dairying  and  his  well  directed  efforts  have  been  rewarded 
by  a success  which  places  him  among  the  substantial  and  progressive  farmers 
of  his  locality. 

In  Hayward,  Wisconsin,  November  5,  1888,  Mr.  Sundet  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Caroline  Paulson,  a daughter  of  Paul  Iv.  and  Margaret  (Morten- 
sen)  Torgberg,  the  former  for  many  years  a farmer  in  Fusen,  Norway.  Both 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Haagh  cemetery,  that  country.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Sundet  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children : Ole,  a farmer  in  Canada ; 
Arthur,  a telegraph  operator ; Melvin,  who  lives  at  home ; Christ,  who  is  assist- 
ing his  father ; and  Martha,  also  at  home. 

Mr.  Sundet  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  his  relig- 
ious views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  a man 
of  high  moral  character,  industrious  and  enterprising,  and  his  honesty  and 
integrity  have  merited  him  the  confidence  and  regard  of  his  neighbors,  among 
whom  he  has  lived  for  over  a quarter  of  a century. 


HENRY  GOETZ  AND  BROTHERS. 


The  Goetz  family  has  long  been  highly  esteemed  in  Sigel  township,  Chip- 
pewa county,  and  Henry  Goetz  is  worthily  carrying  on  the  family  tradition, 
being  not  only  one  of  the  foremost  farmers  and  stock-raisers  of  this  section  but 
also  vice  president  of  the  Citizens  Bank  of  Cadott  and  prominent  in  the  public 
life  of  the  county.  The  family  is  of  German  extraction,  the  father,  Henry  Goetz, 
Sr.,  having  been  born  in  that  country  on  September  10,  1833.  He  was  one  of 
the  early  pioneers  of  Sigel  township,  a farmer  by  profession,  and  attained  to  a 
degree  of  prosperity  which  made  him  one  of  the  most  substantial  men  in  his  local- 
ity. Moreover,  he  was  widely  known  as  a public  official,  enjoying  in  a large 
measure  the  trust  and  confidence  of  the  general  public.  He  served  for  four 
years  as  county  treasurer  and  for  twenty-seven  years  held  the  same  office  in  his 
township.  He  was  also  prominently  connected  with  the  commercial  and  financial 
life  in  Sigel  township,  being  treasurer  and  director  of  the  Eagle  Point  Mutual 
Fire  Insurance  Company  and  one  of  the  organizers  and  president  and  director 
of  the  Citizens  Bank  of  Cadott.  For  three  years  he  served  as  president  in  this 
connection.  He  was  highly  respected  by  all  who  knew  him  on  account  of  his 
foresight,  good  judgment,  his  ability  and  his  absolute  integrity.  His  death, 
which  occurred  December  10,  1909,  marked  a loss  to  the  community  of  one  who 
had  perhaps  done  more  than  any  other  citizen  for  progress  and  advancement 
along  many  lines  of  endeavor.  Henry  Goetz,  Sr.,  was  married  to  Miss  Caroline 
Grassle,  a native  of  Ohio,  born  in  1843,  who  still  makes  her  home  on  the  old 
farm.  Of  this  union  were  born  fifteen  children,  of  whom  Henry  Goetz,  Jr.,  is 
the  eldest  and  the  others  were:  Leopold,  deceased;  John;  George;  Caroline; 
August,  deceased;  Christian  L. ; Louis;  Martha;  Mary;  Reinhardt;  Benjamin; 
Emma;  Frederick;  and  Walter. 


106 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Henry  Goetz,  our  subject,  attended  district  school  in  Sigel  township  until 
eighteen  years  of  age,  early  assisting  his  father  in  his  agricultural  work  and 
becoming  acquainted  with  valuable  methods  of  cultivating  the  soil.  He  has  ever 
remained  here  and  now  owns  about  two  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  located 
on  section  23,  township  29,  range  7.  The  Goetz  family  own  a total  amount  of 
sixteen  hundred  and  eighty  acres  in  this  county,  most  of  which  is  located  in 
Goetz  township.  This  was  originally  part  of  Sigel  township  but  has  been  named 
Goetz  in  honor  of  the  Goetz  family.  Being  a thorough  agriculturist  and  an 
able  business  man,  Mr.  Goetz  employs  the  most  modern  methods  in  the  operation 
of  his  farm  and  has  made  a remarkable  success,  bringing  his  property  to  such  a 
profitable  condition  that  it  must  be  classed  as  one  of  the  most  valuable  in  the 
county.  He  gives  much  attention  to  stock-raising,  averaging  about  one  hundred 
head  of  cattle  per  year,  most  of  which  are  shorthorns.  It  takes  ten  horses  to 
carry  on  the  operation  of  the  farm.  The  farm  buildings,  sheds,  granaries  and 
barns  are  up-to-date  in  every  respect  and  substantially  built,  and  the  most  mod- 
ern machinery  has  been  installed  upon  the  place.  Mr.  Goetz  specializes  in  dairy 
products  and  gives  particular  attention  to  the  sanitary  arrangements  and  the 
highest  class  of  quality  in  their  manufacture.  Moreover,  Mr.  Goetz  is  connected 
with  some  of  the  institutions  in  which  his  father  was  already  prominent,  for  he  is 
vice  president  of  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Cadott  and  treasurer  and  director 
of  the  Eagle  Point  Mutual  Fire  Insurance  Company.  Both  of  these  institutions 
profit  by  his  business  ability  to  a large  extent.  Ever  interested  in  the  higher 
things  of  life,  Mr.  Goetz  is  a devout  member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church,  of 
which  he  is  treasurer  and  one  of  the  overseers,  taking  part  in  all  branches  of 
religious  life.  For  fourteen  years  he  has  served  his  township  as  treasurer.  He  is 
a republican  and  his  convictions  always  lead  him  to  the  support  of  candidates 
and  measures  of  this  party.  Eminently  successful,  Mr.  Goetz  enjoys  in  full  meas- 
ure the  regard  of  all  who  know  him  and  is  most  deeply  respected  by  those  who 
have  known  him  from  his  boyhood  days  and  who  are  most  intimately  acquainted 
with  him.  He  is  one  of  the  most  worthy  native  sons  of  Sigel  township  and  it 
is  this  worthiness  more  than  his  material  achievements  which  assure  him  of  the 
continued  respect  of  the  general  public.  A well  informed,  modern  farmer,  a 
thorough,  able  and  shrewd  business  man,  a sincerely  devout  churchman  and 
a public  servant  of  great  merit,  he  is  entitled  to  all  the  honor  that  comes  his 
way  and  well  merits  the  material  achievements  which  have  been  the  result  of 
careful  planning  and  sagacious  execution. 


HERMAN  MEYER. 

Herman  Meyer,  a representative  of  a well  known  pioneer  family  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  has  since  1881  been  connected  with  the  agricultural  interests  of  this 
part  of  Wisconsin  and  today  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
thirty  acres  in  section  14,  Lafayette  township.  He  was  born  in  Wayne,  Wash- 
ington county,  this  state,  October  24,  1851,  and  is  a son  of  Ludwig  and  Anna 
(Toedder)  Meyer,  both  of  German  origin.  The  family  came  from  Wash- 
ington county  to  Chippewa  county  in  pioneer  times,  settling  near  Cadott  when 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


107 


there  were  only  three  families  within  a radius  of  many  miles.  The  surrounding 
country  was  a tract  of  dense  timber  land  and  the  Indians  were  numerous. 
Ludwig  Meyer  took  up  a tract  of  land  and  with  characteristic  energy  carried 
forward  the  work  of  its  development,  bringing  it  eventually  to  a high  state  of 
cultivation.  Besides  being  an  active  and  prosperous  farmer  he  was  prominent 
also  in  public  affairs  and  held  a number  of  county  offices,  such  as  register  of 
deeds  and  clerk  of  the  court.  He  is  now  living  retired  in  Tilden,  having  reached 
the  advanced  age  of  ninety-four.  His  wife  passed  away  in  1896,  at  the  age  of 
seventy-two,  and  is  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery. 

Herman  Meyer  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  He  afterward  assisted 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  during  the  summer  months  and  spent  the 
winters  in  the  lumber  camps,  continuing  thus  until  1881.  He  then  turned  his 
attention  to  farming,  settling  upon  an  eighty-acre  tract  of  land  in  Wheaton 
township.  At  the  time  this  came  into  his  possession  it  was  entirely  unimproved 
but  in  the  course  of  years  he  brought  it  to  a high  state  of  cultivation,  making  it 
one  of  the  finest  properties  in  the  locality.  When  he  disposed  of  this  he  bought 
his  present  farm,  comprising  one  hundred  and  thirty  acres  lying  on  section  14, 
Lafayette  township,  and  here  he  has  since  engaged  in  agricultural  pursuits,  tak- 
ing a particular  interest  in  the  conduct  of  his  large  modern  dairy.  His  interests 
are  all  carefully  and  ably  conducted  and  have  brought  him  a gratifying  measure 
of  success. 

In  Tilden  township,  on  the  21st  of  October,  1874,  Mr.  Meyer  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Pauline  Vonderheiden,  a daughter  of  William  and  Henrietta 
Vonderheiden,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away.  The  father  is  buried  in  Tilden 
but  the  mother  was  laid  to  rest  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Meyer  are  the 
parents  of  five  children:  Gustav,  who  is  engaged  in  poultry  raising  in  California; 
Clara,  the  wife  of  Vines  Clothier,  a farmer  in  Kansas;  Walter,  a bricklayer  resid- 
ing in  Spokane,  Washington;  Emma,  who  married  James  Koyle,  a foreman  for 
the  Chippewa  Canning  Company ; and  Arthur,  who  is  assisting  his  father. 

Mr.  Meyer  is  a member  of  the  German  Evangelical  church,  of  which  he  has 
been  treasurer  and  trustee,  and  he  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights  of 
the  Maccabees.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  interested  in  public 
affairs,  having  served  for  some  time  as  a member  of  the  board  of  aldermen  of 
Chippewa  Falls.  He  is  an  upright  man,  interested  not  only  in  the  material  but 
also  in  the  moral  standing  of  the  community,  and  he  has  gained  the  confidence 
and  respect  of  his  neighbors  as  a substantial  farmer  and  a useful  citizen. 


JOHN  BENNESCH. 

For  thirty  years  John  Bennesch  has  made  his  home  in  Howard  township, 
and  that  success  has  attended  his  labors  is  evident  from  the  fact  that  he  is 
today  the  owner  of  one  of  the  largest  and  most  profitable  farms  on  section  15, 
comprising  three  hundred  and  eighty  acres,  where  he  engages  in  general  farming 
and  stock-raising.  A native  of  Bohemia,  he  came  to  America  at  the  age  of 
twenty,  after  the  death  of  his  father,  to  seek  the  opportunities  of  the  new  world, 


108 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  that  he  has  found  them  and  made  use  of  them,  his  present  prosperity  rs 
the  best  proof. 

John  Bennesch  was  born  in  Bohemia  in  September,  1863,  and  is  a son  of 
Frank  and  Kedy  Bennesch,  both  of  whom  spent  their  entire  lives  in  the  old 
country,  where  they  passed  away.  John  Bennesch  attended  common  school  in 
Bohemia  until  fourteen  years  of  age,  after  which  he  assisted  his  father  in  farm 
work  until  the  latter’s  death,  when  he  came  to  America.  This  was  in  1883.  He 
engaged  as  a farm  hand  and  worked  for  others  for  a period  of  seven  years, 
carefully  husbanding  his  resources  and  assumulating  the  means  which  enabled 
him  to  start  for  himself.  He  began  with  the  cultivation  of  about  one  hundred 
and  fifty  acres  and  has  since  added  to  his  holdings  until  his  farm  now  comprises 
three  hundred  and  eighty  acres  of  fertile  land.  His  acres  are  planted  to  the  most 
suitable  grain  and  he  also  engages  to  a considerable  extent  in  stock-raising,  hav- 
ing at  present  forty-four  head  of  cattle,  eighteen  hogs,  nine  sheep  and  five  horses. 
He  is  progressive  in  his  methods,  and  the  present  appearance  of  his  farm  is  the 
best  evidence  of  his  indefatigable  industry,  good  judgment  and  ready  under- 
standing of  the  agricultural  proceedings  most  certain  to  obtain  results.  Mr. 
Bennesch  has  erected  a handsome  residence  on  his  land  and  has  also  put  up  a 
number  of  other  farm  buildings  which  are  up-to-date  and  substantial  and  in 
every  way  adequate  to  his  needs.  He  has  installed  modern  machinery  and 
manages  his  enterprise  with  a view  toward  obtaining  the  best  results  at  the 
least  expenditure  of  labor,  which  is  the  foundation  for  great  success. 

On  May  14,  1889,  in  Tilden  township,  Mr.  Bennesch  married  Miss  Theresa 
Manan,  a daughter  of  John  and  Mary  (Wheatle)  Manan,  well  known  residents 
of  Tilden  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bennesch  have  six  children:  Emil,  who  assists 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm ; Caroline,  the  wife  of  William  Dackel,  a 
prosperous  farmer  of  Howard  township;  and  Rose,  Adolph,  Regina  and  Herman, 
all  of  whom  are  yet  at  home. 

Mr.  Bennesch  and  his  family  are  devout  communicants  of  the  Roman  Catholic 
church,  and  politically  he  is  a democrat.  Although  he  has  never  sought  public 
office,  he  is  interested  in  all  worthy  enterprises  promoted  for  the  benefit  of  the 
community,  and  as  a private  citizen  has  done  much  toward  agricultural  advance- 
ment. Through  his  own  efforts  he  has  attained  a success  of  which  he  may  well 
be  proud  and  which  none  can  begrudge  him.  He  is  highly  respected  by  all  who 
know  him  and  has  many  friends  in  Howard  township  who  esteem  him  highly 
for  his  qualities  of  mind  and  character. 


THOMAS  GERMYN. 

Thomas  Germyn  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  since  1887  and  during  the 
greater  portion  of  the  time  has  made  his  home  upon  his  fine  farm  of  one  hundred 
acres  on  section  13,  Lafayette  township,  making  in  the  course  of  years  many 
substantial  contributions  to  the  agricultural  development  and  progress  of  his 
locality.  He  was  born  in  County  Cork,  Ireland,  in  1840,  and  is  a son  of  William 
and  Susan  (Levis)  Germyn,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away.  The  father  died 
in  his  native  country  and  is  buried  in  Skibbereen  Abbey,  County  Cork.  His 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


109 


wife  survived  him  many  years,  living  to  the  advanced  age  of  ninety-nine.  She  is 
buried  in  the  cemetery  at  Wolf  Prairie. 

Thomas  Germyn  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  County  Cork 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  engaged  in  agricultural  pursuits  upon  a rented 
farm.  When  he  left  Ireland  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  America,  settling  in  Wis- 
consin, where  for  a number  of  months  he  worked  at  anything  which  would  bring 
him  an  income.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming  in 
Waukesha  county  and  there  remained  until  1887,  when  he  removed  to  Chippewa 
county,  where  he  has  since  resided.  He  purchased  his  present  farm,  comprising 
one  hundred  acres  lying  on  section  13,  Lafayette  township,  and  here  engages  in 
mixed  farming,  his  practical  efforts  being  rewarded  by  a substantial  measure  of 
success.  Mr.  Germyn  has  made  all  of  his  own  improvements,  erecting  a resi- 
dence, a good  barn  and  substantial  outbuildings,  and  his  property  is  today  one  of 
the  finest  in  this  section  of  the  state. 

Mr.  Germyn  has  been  twice  married.  In  Ireland  he  wedded  Miss  Eliza 
Pipering,  who  died  in  that  country  leaving  two  children : Edward,  who  is  engaged 
in  farming  in  Oklahoma;  and  William,  a farmer  in  Lafayette  township.  After 
the  death  of  his  first  wife  Mr.  Germyn  married,  in  1883,  Miss  Ellen  Allen,  a 
daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  Allen,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  in  Wis- 
consin. Both  have  passed  away,  the  former  being  buried  in  Ireland  and  the 
latter  in  Wolf  Prairie,  this  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Germyn  became  the  parents 
of  two  children : Susan,  the  wife  of  Ole  Larson,  who  is  operating  a farm  belong- 
ing to  his  father-in-law;  and  Allen,  who  died  while  in  the  United  States  naval 
service. 

Mr.  Germyn  is  a member  of  the  Church  of  England,  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs,  taking  an  active  interest  in  the  progress  of  the  community,  where 
he  has  so  long  resided.  In  all  of  his  business  dealings  he  is  straightforward  and 
reliable,  and  in  matters  of  citizenship  helpful  and  progressive,  and  he  enjoys  to 
the  fullest  extent  the  confidence  and  good-will  of  those  who  know  him. 


HENRY  PFAFF. 

Henry  Pfaff,  a prosperous  and  successful  farmer  of  Sigel  township,  owning 
eighty  acres  of  fine  land  on  section  28,  was  born  in  Dunn  county,  Wisconsin, 
February  27,  1875.  He  is  a son  of  Adam  and  Mary  (Templeman)  Pfaff,  natives 
of  Washington  county,  Wisconsin,  the  former  born  in  1847  and  the  latter  in 
1852.  They  came  to  Sigel  township  about  the  year  1876  and  for  many  years 
thereafter  the  father  was  prominently  connected  with  agricultural  interests.  He 
is  now  living  retired  in  Cadott.  In  his  family  were  nine  children : Henry  and 
Katie,  who  are  living;  Carrie,  Lena  and  John,  who  have  all  three  passed  away; 
Charles;  George;  Elizabeth;  and  Frieda. 

Henry  Pfaff  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Sigel  township 
and  from  his  early  childhood  assisted  with  the  work  of  his  father’s  farm,  becom- 
ing in  this  way  thoroughly  familiar  with  the  best  agricultural  methods.  When  he 
was  twenty-one  he  went  to  North  Dakota  but  returned  after  a short  time  and 
later  spent  some  years  working  in  the  woods  in  the  winters  and  at  farming  during 


110 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


the  summer  months.  He  purchased  his  present  property  when  he  was  twenty-four 
years  of  age,  buying  eighty  acres  on  section  28,  Sigel  township,  and  in  the  fol- 
lowing year  he  moved  upon  this  property,  concentrating  his  attention  since  that 
time  upon  its  development.  It  was  entirely  unimproved  when  it  came  into  his 
possession  and  he  was  obliged  to  clear  it  of  timber  before  beginning  the  work 
of  cultivation.  He  has  erected  upon  it  a fine  nine-room  residence,  a commodious 
barn,  built  in  1902,  and  other  substantial  outbuildings,  neglecting  nothing  which 
would  add  to  its  appearance  and  value.  He  engages  in  general  farming,  raising 
hay,  oats,  corn  and  potatoes,  and  he  is  also  interested  in  stock-raising,  keeping 
twelve  head  of  cattle  and  five  horses.  He  is  in  addition  a gas  engine  inspector 
and  has  the  exclusive  agency  for  gas  engines,  windmills  and  threshing  machines  in 
his  township.  He  also  operates  a threshing  machine  and  a corn  husker  of  his 
own  during  the  fall  of  the  year  and  is  well  known  as  a capable,  reliable  and  pro- 
gressive business  man. 

On  the  15th  of  August,  1900,  in  Sigel  township,  Mr.  Pfaff  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Henrietta  Gerber,  a daughter  of  David  and  Henrietta  (Prill) 
Gerber.  Her  father,  who  was  a farmer  in  Sigel  township,  died  March  28,  1906. 
His  wife  is  still  living  and  makes  her  home  with  her  son,  who  lives  in  Arthur 
township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Pfaff  have  become  the  parents  of  nine  children  : Robert ; 
Herman ; Edward ; Mary  and  Leonard,  who  have  passed  away ; Carl ; John ; 
Frederick ; and  Pauline. 

Mr.  Pfaff  is  a member  and  secretary  of  the  Evangelical  church.  He  is  an 
independent  republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  been  justice  of  the  peace 
since  1911.  He  was  also  for  six  years  clerk  of  the  school  board  and  has  served 
as  road  commissioner,  discharging  all  of  his  public  duties  in  a capable  and  con- 
scientious way.  He  is  a man  of  energy  and  resource  and  through  his  enter- 
prise and  honesty  has  acquired  an  enviable  reputation  in  his  community. 


OLE  EMERSON. 

Chippewa  county  numbers  among  its  worthy  and  valued  citizens  Ole  Emerson, 
who  has  resided  in  this  part  of  the  state  since  1869  and  who  has  in  the  intervening 
period  made  many  substantial  contributions  to  its  agricultural  development  and 
progress.  For  thirty-nine  years  he  has  lived  upon  his  present  farm  of  two  hundred 
and  forty  acres  on  section  12,  Lafayette  township,  and  his  holdings  also  include 
valuable  city  property  in  Chippewa  Falls.  He  was  born  in  Eker,  Norway,  Sep- 
tember 15,  1848,  and  is  a son  of  Amon  Peterson  and  Maria  (Gustavson)  Emerson, 
also  natives  of  that  country,  where  the  father  was  a lumberman  and  farmer. 
Both  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Fiskom,  near  Eker. 

Ole  Emerson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  worked  as  a chore  boy  for  a doctor  in  Eker. 
After  resigning  this  position  he  came  to  America,  journeying  by  way  of  Quebec, 
Canada,  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  arrived  June  14,  1869.  He  afterward 
worked  at  farm  labor  for  five  years  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  purchased  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  in  Lafayette  township,  twelve  acres  of  which 
were  improved.  Upon  the  remainder  of  the  property  Mr.  Emerson  felled  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


111 


trees,  grubbed  up  the  stumps  and  broke  the  soil,  eventually  bringing  the  farm 
to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  has  become  known  as  one  of  the  most  able 
farmers  in  this  section  of  the  state  and  his  interests  have  become  extensive  and 
important  with  the  passing  years.  In  addition  to  general  farming  he  engages 
also  in  stock-raising  and  dairying,  lines  of  activity  which  under  his  able  man- 
agement have  become  important  and  profitable.  In  his  earlier  years  he  was  one 
of  the  largest  logging  contractors  in  this  part  of  the  state,  employing  as  many 
as  four  hundred  men  and  paying  about  one  hundred  and  thirty  thousand  dollars 
every  year  for  labor,  but  he  has  since  abandoned  this  occupation,  concentrating 
his  attention  upon  the  work  of  the  farm.  He  has  added  to  his  holding  from  time 
to  time  until  he  now  owns  two  hundred  and  forty  acres,  upon  which  are  a good 
residence,  which  Mr.  Emerson  erected  himself,  and  substantial  barns  and  out- 
buildings. The  buildings  are  modern  and  in  good  repair  and  everything  about 
the  place  is  in  excellent  condition,  reflecting  the  careful  supervision  of  the  owner, 
who  is  a practical  and  able  agriculturist.  He  also  owns  a great  deal  of  city 
property  and  has  accumulated  a comfortable  fortune  as  a reward  of  his  untiring 
labor  and  industry  through  the  years. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  October  n,  1873,  Air.  Emerson  married  Miss 
Gurnel  Hanson,  a daughter  of  Andrew  and  Gurry  Hanson,  natives  of  Nor- 
way, where  the  father  followed  farming.  Both  have  passed  away  and  are 
buried  in  Lear,  near  Drammen,  Norway.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Emerson  became  the 
parents  of  nine  children : George,  who  died  at  the  age  of  fourteen  and  is 
buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery;  Andrew,  a foreman  of  a lumber  camp; 
Mary,  the  wife  of  William  Johnston,  a farmer  in  Lafayette  township ; Milly, 
who  married  Charles  C.  Stone,  a logging  contractor;  Frank,  a bookkeeper  for 
the  Alio  Lumber  Company ; Harry,  engaged  in  farming  in  Lafayette  town- 
ship ; Olga,  the  wife  of  Ole  Hanson,  a clerk  with  the  Farmers  Produce  Company 
of  Bloomer;  Oscar,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  and  Evelyn,  the  wife  of  Walter 
F.  Larabee,  an  attorney  at  law  at  Chippewa  Falls. 

Mr.  Emerson  is  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and 
politically  votes  for  men  and  measures  of  which  he  approves  without  regard  to 
party  lines.  His  interest  in  all  that  pertains  to  the  general  welfare  is  that  of  a 
public-spirited  citizen  who  finds  time  and  inclination  to  cooperate  in  movements 
for  the  public  good.  He  has  witnessed  practically  the  entire  growth  and  develop- 
ment of  Chippewa  county  and  throughout  the  years  has  made  excellent  use  of 
his  time  and  opportunity,  taking  advantage  of  every  chance  that  would  lead  to 
honorable  advancement. 


AUGUST  ALBRIGHT.' 

August  Albright  is  living  upon  a farm  on  section  24,  Lafayette  township, 
where  he  devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  general  agricultural  pursuits  and 
dairying.  He  owns  eighty  acres  of  valuable  land,  whereon  he  has  resided  for 
several  years,  making  it  by  his  practical  efforts  and  untiring  industry  a productive 
and  valuable  farm.  He  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa  county,  born  at  Bloomer, 
October  6,  1886,  his  parents  being  Fred  and  Louise  (Nemtz)  Albright,  both  of 


112 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


German  extraction.  The  father  came  as  a pioneer  to  Chippewa  county,  locating 
here  about  1863,  when  this  region  was  yet  a wilderness.  He  turned  his  attention 
to  farming  pursuits  and  brought  the  land  which  he  took  up  to  a high  state  of 
cultivation.  He  was  killed  by  a horse  in  1909  and  is  buried  in  Bloomer  township 
beside  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in  May,  1897. 

August  Albright  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Bloomer 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fifteen.  He  then  assisted  his  father  with  the 
work  of  the  homestead  and  after  the  latter’s  death  received  the  property  which 
he  now  owns.  He  engages  in  general  farming  but  specializes  in  dairying  and  is 
meeting  with  that  success  which  always  follows  earnest  and  persistent  labor. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  February  3.  1910,  Mr.  Albright  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Ruth  Roycroft,  a daughter  of  John  and  Mary  Melville  Roycroft,  the 
former  a prominent  farmer  of  this  locality,  who  died  in  1909,  and  is  buried  in 
Lafayette  cemetery.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in  Chippewa 
Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Albright  have  become  the  parents  of  a son,  Albert. 

Mr.  Albright  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  con- 
nected fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a young  man 
of  energy,  resource  and  ability  and  has  already  attained  an  enviable  position 
in  agricnltural  circles  and  will  undoubtedly  make  continued  progress  in  his 
chosen  field. 


PLINY  POWER  ELLIS. 

Pliny  Power  Ellis  is  now  practically  living  retired,  although  he  still  occu- 
pies his  farm  on  section  4,  Howard  township,  where  for  many  years  he  carried 
on  general  agricultural  pursuits.  He  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county 
since  the  28th  of  April,  1859,  removing  to  the  west  from  Pennsylvania,  his 
native  state.  He  was  born  on  the  14th  of  July,  1833,  his  parents  being  Asaph 
and  Amanda  (Spencer)  Ellis,  both  of  whom  continued  residents  of  the  Key- 
stone state  until  called  to  their  final  rest.  The  father  died  in  1853  and  the 
mother  in  1844,  and  their  remains  are  interred  in  the  Sabanes  burying  ground  at 
Mahaffey,  Pennsylvania. 

Pliny  Power  Ellis  was  reared  in  the  state  of  his  nativity  and  acquired  his  educa- 
tion in  the  schools  of  Pennsylvania,  pursuing  his  studies  to  the  age  of  seven- 
teen years.  After  leaving  school  he  began  working  in  the  woods  and  was  thus 
employed  for  about  nine  years,  after  which  he  determined  to  try  his  fortune 
in  the  west  and  came  to  Chippewa  county.  Here  he  again  sought  employment 
in  the  lumber  woods,  spending  three  years  in  that  way,  after  which  he  started 
in  business  on  his  own  account.  He  had  gradually  saved  his  earnings  and  was 
anxious  that  his  labors  should  more  directly  benefit  himself.  His  frugality 
and  economy  were  the  foundation  of  his  present  prosperity.  He  has  always 
led  an  industrious  life  and  what  he  has  accomplished  has  been  the  merited  reward 
of  his  earnest,  persistent  labor. 

Mr.  Ellis  was  married,  in  Dunn  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  22d  day  of  March, 
1868,  to  Miss  Emma  Chase,  a daughter  of  James  and  Hannah  (Gay)  Chase, 
both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  were  laid  to  rest  in  Cook  Valley  cemetery, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


113 


Chippewa  county.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ellis  have  been  born  the  following  children: 
Lulu  jane,  born  May  4,  1870,  is  at  home.  Ida  M.,  born  July  14,  1871,  is  the 
wife  of  J.  W.  Bitney,  of  Okee,  Wisconsin.  Charles . Joseph,  born  January  18, 
1873,  is  associated  with  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  farm.  Perry 
James,  born  July  6,  1874,  is  living  in  Waukegan,  Illinois.  Grace  Greenwood, 
born  April  20,  1876,  is  the  wife  of  Jesse  Nichols,  of  Colfax,  Wisconsin.  Pliny 
Orlando,  born  April  15,  187S,  married  Cora  Glover  and  resides  in  Baraboo, 
Wisconsin.  Asaph  Chelsom,  born  June  23,  1880,  died  January  22,  1882.  Han- 
nah Mary,  born  August  13,  1882,  is  the  wife  of  Abraham  La  Baron,  of  Wauke- 
gan, Illinois.  Emma  Alice,  born  June  23,  1884,  is  the  wife  of  Clarke  Lee,  a 
farmer  of  North  Dakota.  Lucy  Amanda  and  Arlie  Ray,  twins,  were  born  April 
1 2,  1887.  The  former  is  now  a resident  of  Waukegan,  Illinois,  but  the  latter 
died  October  18,  1887.  Rosetta  Belle,  born  September  7,  1888,  is  at  home. 
Luman  Bowers,  born  October  20.  1890,  died  June  18,  1892. 

Politically  Mr.  Ellis  is  a republican,  having  voted  with  the  party  since 
its  organization.  He  takes  an  active  interest  in  the  affairs  and  questions  of 
the  day  and  has  always  concentrated  his  energies  and  efforts  upon  his  busi- 
ness, and  as  the  years  have  gone  by  his  earnest  work  has  brought  him  success. 
He  has  long  lived  upon  the  farm  which  is  now  his  home  and  has  carefully 
cultivated  the  fields,  making  it  one  of  the  excellent  properties  of  Howard  town- 
ship. At  the  present  time  he  is  largely  leaving  the  work  of  the  fields  to  his 
son,  while  he  enjoys  a well  merited  rest. 


WILLIAM  J.  GEISSLER. 


The  residence  upon  the  farm  of  William  J.  Geissler  on  section  9,  Howard 
township,  was  erected  by  him,  as  were  other  buildings  upon  his  place,  and  he 
has  carried  steadily  forward  the  work  of  development  and  improvement  until 
his  tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  is  now  very  productive  and 
yields  him  golden  harvests  as  a reward  for  the  care  and  labor  he  bestows  upon 
it.  He  is  yet  a comparatively  young  man  but  has  won  success  that  many  an- 
other might  well  envy. 

He  has  always  lived  in  Chippewa  county,  his  birth  having  occurred  within 
its  borders  in  1878,  his  parents  being  Edward  and  Anna  (Rubenser)  Geissler, 
who  are  residents  of  Tilden.  Spending  his  youthful  days  under  the  parental 
roof,  William  J.  Geissler  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Tilden  until  he  put 
aside  his  text-books  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years.  After  leaving  school  he  assisted 
his  father  for  about  eight  years  and  became  familiar  with  every  branch  of 
farm  work,  thus  gaining  the  practical  knowledge  and  experience  which  enabled 
him  to  win  success  when  he  started  out  in  life  on  his  own  account.  He  today 
has  a good  tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  and  carries  on  mixed 
farming.  He  has  about  five  head  of  horses,  twenty-one  head  of  cattle  and 
fifty  hogs,  so  that  his  farm  is  well  stocked.  He  employs  modern  methods  in 
carrying  on  his  place  and  it  presents  a neat  and  attractive  appearance,  which 
bears  evidence  of  the  progressive  spirit  of  the  owner. 


114 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Geissler  was  married  in  Tilden,  in  February,  1894,  to  Miss  Clara  Blair, 
a daughter  of  William  and  Matilda  Blair,  now  residents  of  Canada.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Geissler  have  a family  of  nine  children:  William,  Edward,  Harold,  Henry, 
Albert,  Walter,  Anna,  Angeline  and  Ernest,  all  yet  at  home. 

The  religious  faith  of  the  family  is  that  of  the  Catholic  church  and  the 
political  support  of  Mr.  Geissler  is  given  to  the  republican  party.  He  has  firm 
faith  in  its  principles  and  while  he  does  not  seek  office  for  himself,  he  is  always 
willing  to  support  the  candidates  who  stand  for  the  political  principles  in  which 
he  so  strongly  believes. 


M.  S.  BAILEY. 

A man  of  varied  interests  and  forceful  personality,  M.  S.  Bailey  has  since  1871 
been  closely  connected  with  business  and  public  affairs  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  is 
today  numbered  among  the  leading  citizens  of  that  community.  For  almost  a 
quarter  of  a century  he  has  been  active  in  the  real-estate  and  insurance  business 
and  his  efforts  have  extended  to  many  other  fields,  carrying  him  forward  into 
close  relations  with  general  municipal  life.  He  is  well  known  in  educational 
circles  for  his  excellent  work  on  the  school  board  and  as  a member  of  the 
industrial  commission  and  his  interests  are  all  of  a progressive  character.  He 
was  born  in  Rolling  Prairie,  Wisconsin,  August  19,  1857,  and  is  a son  of  Ethan 
Allan  and  Adelia  J.  Bailey.  The  former  was  for  some  time  a wheat  and  grain 
buyer  in  Wabasha,  Minnesota,  and  Randolph,  Wisconsin,  and  at  the  time  of  the 
birth  of  the  subject  of  this  review  was  engaged  in  merchandising.  He  died  in 
1866  and  was  survived  by  his  wife  until  1872.  The  latter  is  buried  in  the  Forest 
Hill  cemetery,  this  city. 

M.  S.  Bailey  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  city 
and  in  Notre  Dame  school  in  Chippewa  Falls.  He  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age 
of  fifteen  and  afterward  took  up  the  study  of  telegraphy.  For  a time  he  had 
charge  of  the  operating  office  of  a private  company  which  had  a line  between 
Chippewa  Falls  and  Eau  Claire.  This  was  later  purchased  by  the  Northwestern 
Telegraph  Company  and  merged  into  the  Western  Union  Telegraph  Company. 
Mr.  Bailey  continued  as  operator  until  1881  and  in  the  later  years  of  his  connec- 
tion with  the  telegraph  office  had  also  full  charge  of  the  express  department.  In 
1881  he  became  corresponding  clerk  for  the  American  Express  Company  in  their 
office  in  Milwaukee  but  after  a few  years  returned  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he 
purchased  an  interest  in  the  business  conducted  by  A.  S.  Stiles  & Company,  the 
name  being  changed  to  Stiles,  Lego  & Bailey.  Mr.  Bailey  retained  this  connection 
until  the  fall  of  1884,  when  he  was  elected  to  the  office  of  clerk  of  the  court. 

After  serving  as  clerk  of  the  court  for  four  years  Mr.  Bailey  turned  his  atten- 
tion to  the  insurance  business.  He  retained  his  connection  with  this  line  of  work 
during  his  term  of  service  as  county  superintendent  of  schools,  from  1890  to  1894, 
and  during  that  time  and  afterward  he  built  up  a large  and  important  patronage. 
In  1889  he  engaged  in  the  insurance  business  with  B.  F.  Miller,  which  relation- 
ship was  continued  for  one  year.  He  then  formed  a partnership  with  Ambrose 
Hoffman  under  the  firm  name  of  M.  S.  Bailey  & Company,  insurance  and  real 


M.  S.  BAILEY 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


117 


estate.  The  firm  so  continued  until  the  death  of  Mr.  Hoffman,  after  which  Mrs. 
Hoffman,  now  Mrs.  Cary,  succeeded  to  her  husband's  share  in  the  business.  In 
January,  1911,  the  share  of  Mrs.  Hoffman  was  taken  over  by  Earle  H.  Bailey, 
the  son  of  our  subject,  and  the  business  is  still  conducted  under  the  style  of 
M.  S.  Bailey  & Company.  In  1897  he  joined  A.  B.  McDonell  and  R.  E.  Chin 
and  they  organized  the  Wisconsin  Land  & Loan  Company,  the  growth  of  which 
is  due  in  a large  measure  to  Mr.  Bailey’s  energy,  resourcefulness  and  ability.  The 
latter  in  1900  joined  with  a number  of  other  local  business  men  in  the  organization 
of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Canning  Company  and  Mr.  Bailey  is  still  secretary  and 
manager  of  this  concern.  He  has  also  aided  in  the  foundation  and  development 
of  a great  many  other  business  enterprises  and,  having  the  interests  of  the  com- 
munity always  at  heart,  has  been  a valuable  factor  in  its  commercial  and  indus- 
trial expansion.  His  business  interests  alone  do  not  serve  to  indicate  the  scope 
of  his  activities  for  his  efforts  have  extended  to  many  fields,  lying  always  along 
lines  of  progress  and  improvement.  As  a member  of  the  board  of  education  he 
aided  in  securing  the  erection  of  a new  high  school  building  in  the  city  and  he  is 
at  present  a member  of  the  industrial  commission  which  was  organized  under 
the  laws  of  the  state  of  Wisconsin  for  the  purpose  of  conducting  vocational 
schools. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  7th  of  September,  1882,  Mr.  Bailey  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Grace  E.  Halbert,  a daughter  of  Thomas  L.  and  Emily  A. 
Halbert,  the  former  a pioneer  lumberman  in  that  city  and  afterward  organizer  and 
president  of  the  First  National  Bank.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bailey  are  the  parents  of 
two  sons:  E.  H.,  who  is  in  partnership  with  his  father;  and  Lee  A.,  a graduate 
of  the  Massachusetts  Institute  of  Technology  and  now  in  practice  as  a structural 
engineer. 

Mr.  Bailey  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  aside  from  the  offices 
above  mentioned  is  serving  as  a member  of  the  park  board.  His  activities  have 
been  important  factors  in  advancing  the  commercial,  industrial  and  general  busi- 
ness interests  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  aside  from  all  of  these  fields  in  which  his 
labors  have  brought  him  profitable  returns  he  has  put  forth  effective  efforts  for 
the  benefit  and  upbuilding  of  the  city,  cooperating  largely  and  generously  where 
the  welfare  of  the  community  has  been  involved.  He  is  well  known  in  Chippewa 
Falls  and  the  years  of  his  residence  there  have  brought  him  well  deserved  honor 
and  esteem  among  his  fellow  citizens. 


PERRY  FRIEDERICK. 


Chippewa  county  numbers  among  its  prosperous  and  successful  native  sons 
Perry  Friederick,  who  for  a number  of  years  has  owned  and  operated  a fine 
farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  sections  14  and  23,  Lafayette  town- 
ship. He  was  born  November  11,  1861,  and  is  a son  of  Jacob  and  Catherine 
(Prescoe)  Friederick,  of  German  extraction.  The  father  was  one  of  the  earli- 
est settlers  in  Chippewa  county,  taking  up  his  residence  here  in  1858.  At  the 
outbreak  of  the  Civil  war  he  joined  a Wisconsin  regiment  and  lost  his  life  on 
Yoi.  n—  7 


118 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


the  southern  battlefields.  His  wife  survived  him  many  years,  dying  in  1905, 
when  she  was  sixty  years  of  age.  Both  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery. 

Perry  Friederick  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Lafayette 
township  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  For  five  years  there- 
after he  worked  at  farming  in  the  employ  of  others  and  when  he  was  twenty- 
one  took  charge  of  his  mother’s  homestead.  This  property  he  has  operated 
since  that  time  and  is  now  its  owner,  its  excellent  condition  being  entirely  due 
to  his  well  directed  and  practical  labors.  His  father  had  broken  fifteen  acres 
of  the  land,  but  with  this  exception  the  farm  was  practically  unimproved  when 
it  came  into  Mr.  Friederick’s  possession.  He  broke  the  soil,  erected  substantial 
farm  buildings  and  fenced  the  property  into  convenient  fields,  bringing  it  to 
a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  engages  in  mixed  farming  and  dairying  and 
under  his  able  management  both  branches  have  proven  profitable  and  important. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  3d  of  May,  1893,  Mr.  Friederick  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Diana  White,  a daughter  of  Samuel  and  Isabelle  White,  the 
former  one  of  the  pioneer  settlers  in  Chippewa  county.  He  now  resides  in 
Greenville  and  has  survived  his  wife,  who  is  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 
Mrs.  Friederick  passed  away  February  12,  1909,  leaving  six  children:  Ethel, 
who  is  her  father’s  housekeeper ; Samuel,  assisting  with  the  operation  of  the 
homestead ; and  Robert,  Loretta,  Margaret  and  Clarence,  all  of  whom  are 
attending  school. 

Mr.  Friederick  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  a devout  member 
of  the  Presbyterian  church.  Having  resided  in  Chippewa  county  from  his  birth 
to  the  present  time,  he  is  widely  and  favorably  known  here  and  his  excellent 
qualities  of  mind  and  character  have  gained  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of 
his  neighbors  and  friends. 


THEODORE  W.  FILTZ,  Jr. 

Among  the  progressive  and  enterprising  young  business  men  of  Cadott  is 
numbered  Theodore  W.  Filtz,  Jr.,  who  since  1896  has  been  connected  with  the 
firm  of  Theodore  Filtz  & Sons,  box  manufacturers.  He  has  founded  a gratify- 
ing success  in  this  field  upon  industry,  reliability  and  well  timed  business  aggres- 
siveness, and  during  the  period  of  his  connection  with  it  has  been  one  of  the 
greatest  individual  factors  in  promoting  the  advancement  of  the  concern  and 
in  directing  its  policies  along  modern  and  progressive  lines. 

He  was  born  in  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  6th  of  November,  1875,  a son  of 
Theodore  and  Theresa  (Schuster)  Filtz,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born 
in  1845  and  the  latter  in  1848.  The  mother  came  to  Wisconsin  at  the  age  of  six- 
teen and  her  marriage  occurred  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Theodore  Filtz,  Sr.,  was 
brought  to  America  when  he  was  six  years  of  age  and  he  grew  to  manhood  in 
Chippewa  county.  In  1880  he  moved  to  Cadott  where  he  was  employed  by  the 
Clark  Manufacturing  Company  for  thirteen  years  thereafter.  At  the  end  of  that 
time  he  purchased  a small  engine  and  established  a lathe  mill  of  his  own,  to  which 
at  the  end  of  a year  he  added  a shingle  mill.  In  1896  he  enlarged  his  business 
and  bought  another  mill,  a lumber  mill,  which  he  operated  until  1899,  when 


1 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


119 


he  again  added  to  his  undertakings  by  beginning  the  manufacture  of  cheese 
boxes.  In  1907  he  purchased  the  plant  of  the  Cadott  Manufacturing  Company  and 
formed  the  firm  of  Theodore  Filtz  & Sons,  box  manufacturers.  He  is  still  con- 
nected with  this  business  and  is  numbered  among  the  prominent  and  representa- 
tive men  of  the  city.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  eight  children : 
Minnie,  married  Edward  Heagle,  a farmer  of  Sigel  township  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  three  children:  Gerald,  Leonia,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 
August  is  a partner  in  the  firm  of  Theodore  Filtz  & Sons;  he  married  Miss  Emma 
Kaiser  and  to  their  union  were  born  two  children:  Jeannette  and  one  deceased. 
Henry  was  passed  away.  Theodore  W..  Jr.,  is  the  subject  of  this  review.  Annie 
married  Joseph  Couey,  a railroad  man  of  Hudson’s  Bay  Junction,  Canada,  and  they 
have  a son,  Robert.  Frank  is  also  connected  with  Theodore  Filtz  & Sons.  He 
married  Miss  Annie  Schultz  and  they  have  a son,  Walter.  Mary  has  passed  away. 
Edward,  the  youngest  child  in  this  family,  is  a mill  hand  in  the  factory  of  Theo- 
dore Filtz  & Sons.  He  married  Miss  Frances  Bean. 

Theodore  W.  Filtz,  Jr.,  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Cadott 
which  he  attended  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  When  he  laid  aside  his  books 
he  entered  the  employ  of  his  father,  working  in  the  mill,  and  in  1896  was  taken 
into  partnership.  He  has  since  been  connected  with  Theodore  Filtz  & Sons  and 
has  been  a helpful  factor  in  the  remarkable  growth  of  the  business  it  controls. 
This  is  one  of  the  largest  manufacturing  enterprises  in  this  section  of  the  state, 
the  plant  and  stock  being  valued  at  about  forty  thousand  dollars.  The  firm  con- 
trols a large  and  growing  patronage  for  its  business  standards  are  high  and  its 
policy  progressive.  Mr.  Filtz  of  this  review  is  also  a stock  holder  in  the  Citizens 
State  Bank  of  Cadott  and  lie  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on 
section  20,  township  29,  range  6,  northwest,  ten  acres  of  which  are  cleared  and 
under  cultivation. 

Mr.  Filtz  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America 
and  is  a devout  member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  He  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  and  is  at  present  village  supervisor,  dis- 
charging his  duties  in  a conscientious  and  able  way.  He  is  known  as  a progres- 
sive, reliable  and  straightforward  business  man  and  his  record  is  a credit  and  an 
honor  to  a name  that  has  been  highly  esteemed  and  respected  in  Cadott  for 
many  years. 


JOHN  A.  FRIEDERICK. 

John  A.  Friederick  is  engaged  in  general  farming  in  Lafayette  township, 
owning  and  operating  three  hundred  acres  of  land  on  sections  14,  23  and  24. 
He  has  brought  his  fields  under  a high  state  of  cultivation  and  his  place  presents 
an  attractive  appearance,  reflecting  everywhere  his  careful  supervision  and  prac- 
tical methods.  Mr.  Friederick  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  since  he  was 
three  months  old  but  was  born  in  Adams  county,  this  state,  June  10,  1856.  He 
is  a son  of  John  and  Eva  (Lena)  Friederick,  the  former  one  of  the  earliest 
settlers  in  this  part  of  Wisconsin.  He  came  to  Chippewa  county  when  it  was 
still  a wilderness  and  here  took  up  land,  which  in  the  course  of  vears  he  brought 


120 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  became  prominent  and  active  in  public  affairs 
and  was  honored  by  his  fellow  citizens  by  election  to  various  positions  of  trust 
and  responsibility,  serving  as  school  director  and  also  as  clerk  of  the  board  of 
education.  He  passed  away  in  1894,  at  the  age  of  sixty-nine,  having  survived 
his  wife  eleven  months.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 

John  A.  Friederick  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  this 
county  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  then  assisted  his 
father  with  the  work  of  the  farm,  helping  to  clear  the  land  and  to  carry  forward 
the  work  of  development  and  improvement.  Upon  the  death  of  John  Friederick, 
Sr.,  the  estate,  comprising  three  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  was  divided  among 
his  children,  Mr.  Friederick  of  this  review  receiving  eighty  acres  as  his  share. 
By  hard  work  and  intelligent  management  he  has  added  to  his  holdings  since 
that  time,  owning  today  three  hundred  acres,  all  in  a high  state  of  cultivation. 
He  has  erected  upon  his  farm  a large  modern  residence  and  has  made  many 
other  improvements,  neglecting  nothing  which  would  add  to  the  appearance 
or  value  of  the  place.  Upon  this  fine  property  Mr.  Friederick  engages  in  general 
farming  and  has  achieved  a substantial  and  gratifying  success,  owning  one  of 
the  best  agricultural  properties  in  his  locality. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  28th  of  December,  1884,  Mr.  Friederick  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Dorothea  Klages,  a daughter  of  Fred  and  Dorothea 
Klages,  the  former  a pioneer  settler  in  this  locality.  He  died  in  February,  1913, 
at  the  age  of  seventy-two,  having  survived  his  wife  one  year.  Both  are  buried 

in  the  Lafayette  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Friederick  became  the  parents  of 

eight  children:  Lizzie,  who  married  Roy  Melville,  a son  of  John  S.  Melville,  of 
whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this  work;  George  IT.,  who  is 
assisting  his  father;  Alice,  the  wife  of  James  Ryan,  a farmer  in  Lafayette  town- 
ship; Martha,  at  home;  William  J.  and  Oscar,  who  are  aiding  in  the  operation 
of  the  homestead ; and  Dorothea  and  Verner,  who  are  attending  school. 

Mr.  Friederick  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  interested  in  the 

advancement  and  growth  of  Chippewa  county,  where  he  has  resided  practically 
all  his  life.  He  is  widely  known  here  as  a representative  citizen  and  he  com- 
mands the  confidence  and  respect  of  the  entire  community. 


HERMAN  G.  SCHROETTER. 

Herman  G.  Schroetter,  a representative  and  progressive  agriculturist  ot 
Cleveland  township,  owning  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  land  on  section 
31,  township  31,  range  7,  is  an  up-to-date  dairy  farmer  who  has  won  a most 
gratifying  measure  of  success  in  his  undertakings.  His  birth  occurred  in  Prince- 
ton, Green  Lake  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  23d  of  April,  1875,  his  parents  being 
Edward  and  Minnie  (Zimmerman)  Schroetter,  both  natives  of  Germany.  The 
father,  a carpenter  by  trade,  followed  that  occupation  for  several  years  after 
his  emigration  to  the  United  States  and  subsequently  turned  his  attention  to 
general  agricultural  pursuits,  owning  a farm  in  Green  Lake  county,  this  state. 
Later  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  purchased  a farm  near  Bloomer,  on 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


121 


which  he  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life.  His  widow  survives  and  makes  her 
home  on  that  property. 

Herman  G.  Schroetter  began  working  as  a farm  hand  when  twenty  years 
of  age,  being  employed  by  agriculturists  of  the  neighborhood.  In  1901  he  came 
to  Chippewa  county  and  purchased  a slightly  improved  tract  of  two  hundred 
and  forty  acres  on  section  31,  township  31,  range  7.  He  has  cleared  consider- 
able more  of  the  land  and  carries  on  dairy  farming  with  excellent  success.  For 
his  horses  and  cows  he  erected  a barn  with  cement  floors  which  is  the  largest 
in  Cleveland  township,  its  dimensions  being  one  hundred  and  twenty  by  forty- 
two  feet.  He  also  owns  a milking  machine,  operated  by  a four  horse  power 
gasoline  engine,  which  has  a capacity  of  from  one  to  eight  cows.  Mr.  Schroetter 
disposes  of  his  cream  at  the  creamery  and  for  eight  years  has  had  a wagon  on 
the  cream  route.  He  is,  moreover,  a machinist  of  no  mean  ability  and  possesses 
considerable  inventive  genius.  He  has  equipped  his  well  with  a gas  engine 
pump  and  has  also  a wood  saw  of  his  own  invention,  the  logs  being  brought 
under  the  saw  by  means  of  pulleys  and  feeding  apparatus  without  having  to 
be  lifted.  Mr.  Schroetter  milks  on  an  average  of  twenty  cows  and  is  widely 
recognized  as  a modern  and  up-to-date  dairy  farmer.  He  has  filled  his  silo  for 
the  past  five  years  and  owns  the  best  ensilage  cutting  machine  in  the  neigh- 
borhood. 

On  December  8,  1901,  in  Green  Lake  county,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Schroetter 
was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Louisa  Nehring,  a native  of  that  county  and  a 
daughter  of  Carl  and  Emelia  Nehring,  natives  of  Germany.  The  father  first 
located  at  Caloma  Station,  where  he  was  engaged  in  farming,  but  when  Mrs. 
Schroetter  was  about  six  years  of  age  the  family  removed  to  Marquette  county, 
Wisconsin.  The  mother  has  passed  away,  but  the  father  is  still  living  there.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Schroetter  became  the  parents  of  seven  children,  of  whom  Erma  died 
in  infancy.  The  others  are  Laura,  Elmer,  Ida,  Mildred,  Norma  and  Lucile. 

Mr.  Schroetter  is  independent  in  his  political  views  and  has  served  as  a 
member  of  the  school  board  for  three  years,  the  cause  of  education  finding  in 
him  a stalwart  champion.  In  religious  faith  he  and  his  family  are  Lutherans. 
In  all  the  relations  of  life  his  has  been  a creditable  record  and  he  has  a circle 
of  friends  almost  coextensive  with  the  circle  of  his  acquaintances. 


WILLIAM  IT.  WOLF. 

William  H.  Wolf,  who  since  1881  has  followed  the  trade  of  a mason  and 
contractor  and  engaged  also  in  mixed  farming  upon  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  fine  land  on  section  20,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  in  Decorah,  Iowa, 
May  29,  1863.  He  is  a son  of  Harrison  and  Nancy  (Mizner)  Wolf,  the  former 
of  whom  followed  the  mason’s  trade  for  a number  of  years.  He  came  with  his 
family  to  Chippewa  county  from  Iowa  and  became  very  prominent  and  highly 
respected  in  this  locality,  where  he  continued  to  reside  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1889,  when  he  was  fifty-eight  years  of  age.  His  wife  survived 
him  many  years,  dying  in  1910,  at  the  age  of  seventy-six.  Both  are  buried  in 
Lafayette  cemetery.  They  became  the  parents  of  twelve  children,  six  of  whom 


122 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


died  in  infancy,  the  others  being:  Charles,  who  was  drowned  at  the  age  of  nine- 
teen and  is  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery ; Minnie,  the  wife  of  Anton  Snyder, 
a resident  of  Chippewa  Falls  ; Ella,  who  married  Robert  I lerold,  a lumberman 
in  Portland,  Oregon;  William  H.,  of  this  review;  Ida,  the  wife  of  J.  Rich,  a 
farmer  in  Canada;  and  Louis,  who  died  in  the  fall  of  1880. 

William  H.  Wolf  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Decorah, 
Iowa,  laying  his  books  aside  at  the  early  age  of  twelve.  Even  before  this  time 
he  was  obliged  to  earn  his  own  livelihood  and  after  leaving  school  worked  in 
the  flour  mills  in  Decorah  and  at  anything  else  which  would  bring  him  an  income. 
He  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1880  and  here  engaged  in  various  pursuits  for 
a number  of  years  thereafter.  Success  rewarded  his  well  directed  labors  and 
he  gradually  accumulated  enough  money  to  purchase  land.  He  bought  one 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  20,  Lafayette  township,  and  to  this  after- 
ward added  forty  acres,  his  property  being  today  one  of  the  finest  and  most 
productive  in  his  locality.  Mr.  Wolf  has  remodeled  the  residence,  built  a com- 
modious barn  and  a good  silo  and  always  uses  the  most  modern  machinery  to 
facilitate  the  work  of  the  fields.  He  engages  in  mixed  farming  and  has  been 
very  successful,  for  he  invariably  follows  the  most  practical  methods  and  never 
neglects  anything  which  will  add  to  the  value  of  his  farm.  Since  settling  in  this 
county  in  1880  he  has  also  followed  the  trade  of  a mason  and  contractor  in 
connection  with  the  work  of  the  farm. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  July  14,  1889,  Mr.  Wolf  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Christine  Heiser,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  ten  children:  John  H. 

and  Willis,  both  of  whom  are  engaged  in  farming;  Hazel,  Mabel  and  Nancy,  at 
home;  Ruth,  Dorothea,  Ethel  and  Wesley,  all  of  whom  are  attending  school; 
and  Loraine. 

Mr.  Wolf  is  a progressive  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  interested  in  commu- 
nity affairs,  cooperating  heartily  in  measures  to  promote  general  progress.  He  has 
steadily  advanced  as  a result  of  his  persistent  energy  and  unabating  industry 
and  enjoys  the  friendship  and  confidence  of  all  who  come  in  contact  with  him. 


FRANK  HORN. 

Frank  Horn  carries  on  general  farming  on  section  13,  Howard  township, 
where  he  owns  and  cultivates  a tract  of  land  of  two  hundred  acres.  Through- 
out the  greater  period  of  his  manhood  he  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county,  arriv- 
ing here  in  1875.  He  was  reared,  however,  in  Dodge  county,  Wisconsin,  where 
he  was  born  on  the  2d  of  December,  1848,  his  parents  being  Jacob  and  Theresa 
(Kliner)  Horn,  who  lived  for  many  years  in  Dodge  county  and  were  there  laid 
to  rest.  The  father  passed  away  in  1858  but  the  mother  long  survived,  her 
death  occurring  in  1911.  He  was  a prominent  and  influential  citizen  of  Dodge 
county  in  the  early  half  of  the  nineteenth  century  and  he  held  several  of  the 
leading  county  and  township  offices,  the  duties  of  which  he  discharged  with 
promptness  and  fidelity,  making  a creditable  record  in  that  connection. 

Reared  under  the  parental  roof,  Frank  Horn  was  but  ten  years  of  age 
when  his  father  died.  He  was  at  that  time  attending  school  and  continued  his 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


123 


education  until  he  reached  the  age  of  fourteen,  when  he  left  school,  feeling  it 
incumbent  upon  him  to  provide  for  his  own  support.  He  secured  employment  as 
a farm  hand  and  thus  worked  in  Dodge  county  until  his  removal  to  Chippewa 
county  in  1875.  Here  he  began  farming  on  his  own  account  on  the  tract  which 
he  today  owns.  He  now  has  two  hundred  acres  and  the  soil,  naturally  arable, 
responds  readily  to  the  care  and  labor  which  he  bestows  upon  it.  The  fields 
show  that  he  is  following  diversified  farming,  for  he  raises  various  crops  and 
keeps  upon  his  place  seven  head  of  horses,  fifteen  head  of  cattle  and  twenty  or 
more  hogs.  The  buildings  upon  his  farm  were  erected  by  him  and  include  a 
substantial  residence  and  good  barn  and  outbuildings.  His  farm  is  divided 
into  fields  of  convenient  size  by  well  kept  fences  and  he  utilizes  improved 
modern  machinery  in  the  work  of  plowing,  planting  and  harvesting. 

In  1882,  in  Tilden,  occurred  the  marriage  of  Mr.  Horn  and  Miss  Theresa 
Bowe,  a daughter  of  Michael  and  Mary  Ann  (Myers)  Bowe,  both  of  whom 
have  passed  away,  their  remains  being  interred  in  Tilden  cemetery.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Horn  have  a familly  of  five  children : Nick,  Gilbert,  Benjamin  and  Adelaide, 
who  are  all  under  the  parental  roof ; and  Anna,  who  is  the  wife  of  Joseph  Hepp- 
feller,  a saloon  keeper  of  Marsfield,  Wisconsin. 

The  family  attend  the  SS.  Peter  and  Paul  Catholic  church,  of  Tilden,  of 
which  Mr.  Horn  is  a member.  In  politics  he  is  a democrat  but  has  never  been 
an  office  seeker  in  the  usually  accepted  sense  of  the  term.  For  about  twelve 
years  he  was  school  clerk  and  the  cause  of  education  finds  in  him  a stalwart 
champion.  The  major  portion  of  his  time  and  attention,  however,  is  devoted 
to  his  farming  interests  and  the  neat  and  thrifty  appearance  of  his  place  is 
indicative  of  the  spirit  that  actuates  him  in  his  chosen  life  work. 


VALENTINE  MULLER. 

About  fifty-five  years  have  come  and  gone  since  Valentine  Muller  arriveu 
in  Chippewa  county.  Already  some  of  the  first  hardy  pioneers  had  settled  here 
and  land  was  rapidly  being  taken  up  by  those  who  wished  to  make  homes  for 
themselves  and  were  willing  to  meet  the  hardships  and  privations  of  frontier 
life.  Mr.  Muller  was  ambitious  to  own  property  and,  arriving  here  in  1858, 
bought  eighty  acres  upon  what  is  now  section  15,  Tilden  township.  About 
ten  years  later  he  bought  an  additional  eighty  acres  and  upon  this  place  he  has 
since  resided,  converting  it  into  a productive  and  profitable  farm,  which  annually 
returns  him  bounteous  harvests.  All  this  represents  much  hard  work,  but  his 
persistent  labor  has  at  length  been  crowned  by  success.  Mr.  Muller  was  born 
in  Frankenberg,  Germany,  July  27,  1836,  and  is  a son  of  Johannes  and  Eliza- 
beth (Mitze)  Muller,  the  former  of  whom  engaged  in  the  flour  milling  business. 
Both  have  passed  away,  the  mother  dying  in  1841  and  the  father  in  December, 
T870.  They  are  buried  in  the  family  cemetery  near  Hesse-Darmstadt,  Germany. 

Valentine  Muller  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Buchenberg 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  Afterward  he  assisted  his 
father  in  the  mill  until  1857  and  then  emigrated  to  America.  He  worked  for 
a time  on  the  building  of  a sugar  factory  in  New  York  but,  wishing  to  engage 


124 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  farming,  came  in  the  following  year,  by  way  of  Milwaukee,  to  Chippewa 
Falls,  arriving  here  when  the  town  boasted  of  only  one  store.  He  hired  out 
to  a farmer  and  at  the  same  time  located  a claim,  soon  afterward  moving  to  this 
property,  where  he  has  since  resided.  It  meant  much  difficult  labor  to  develop 
a farm  from  the  unbroken  wilderness,  but  he  resolutely  set  himself  to  the  task, 
clearing  his  property,  breaking  the  soil  and  erecting  the  first  necessary  buildings. 
Flour  at  that  time  was  five  dollars  a sack  and  other  provisions  proportionately 
expensive  and  Mr.  Muller  was  obliged  to  endure  many  hardships  during  the 
early  days  of  his  residence  here.  The  work  of  developing  the  farm  was,  how- 
ever, carried  forward  year  by  year  until  he  was  finally  in  possession  of  a valua- 
ble property,  provided  with  an  excellent  residence  and  substantial  farm  buildings. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  December  26,  i860,  Mr.  Muller  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Emily  Geisler,  a daughter  of  Wenzelaus  and  Barbara  (Meyer)  Geisler, 
natives  of  Bohemia.  The  mother  died  in  that  country  in  1850  and  was  buried 
near  Tabor  and  three  years  later  the  father  came  to  America,  settling  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  where  he  engaged  in  paper  making  and  mill  building.  He  died  here 
in  1876.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Muller  became  the  parents  of  six  children:  Henry,  who 

passed  away  in  May,  1882,  at  the  age  of  seven,  and  is  buried  in  the  Tilden 
cemetery;  Emily,  the  wife  of  Joe  Hartman,  a farmer  in  Howard  township; 
Mary,  the  widow  of  Charles  Lowe,  a farmer  of  Howard  township;  Valentine, 
Jr.,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Tilden  township;  Helena,  who  married  George 
Hartman,  Jr.,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Chippewa  county;  and  Henry,  the 
second  of  the  name,  who  is  assisting  his  father. 

Mr.  Muller  is  a member  of  SS.  Peter  and  Paul  Roman  Catholic  church 
of  Tilden,  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  views.  For  the  past  three  years 
he  has  served  as  township  treasurer  and  has  been  always  active  in  community 
affairs,  cooperating  heartily  in  movements  for  the  general  good.  The  fifty- 
five  years  since  his  arrival  here  have  been  filled  with  hard  work  and  many  priva- 
tions but  have  brought  him  finally  a gratifying  degree  of  success,  so  that  he 
stands  today  among  the  prosperous  agriculturists  of  Chippewa  county  and 
among  its  most  honored  and  respected  pioneers. 


GEORGE  A.  STEWART. 

Among  the  extensive  landholders  of  Cleveland  township,  Chippewa  county, 
is  George  A.  Stewart,  who  owns  a valuable  farm  of  two  hundred  and  ninety-three 
acres,  one  hundred  of  which  are  under  cultivation,  yielding  him  a gratifying  annual 
income.  His  land  is  improved  with  excellent  buildings,  and  the  appearance  of 
the  property  indicates  clearly  the  prosperity  of  its  owner.  Moreover,  Mr.  Stewart 
has  participated  in  the  public  life  of  his  township,  having  served  in  an  official 
capacity  in  various  connections  for  many  years.  A native  of  Canada,  George  A. 
Stewart  was  born  in  Granville,  August  1,  1861,  his  parents  being  William  and 
Mary  (Bates)  Stewart,  natives  of  Ireland.  The  father  made  removal  to  the 
Dominion  when  a young  man,  there  engaging  in  lumbering  and  farming.  Mary 
Bates  was  brought  to  Canada  when  a mere  baby. 


GEORGE  A.  STEWART  AND  FAMILY 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


127 


George  A.  Stewart  was  reared  under  the  parental  roof  and  in  the  acquire- 
ment of  his  education  attended  school  in  his  native  province.  Upon  coming  to 
the  United  States  he  made  his  way  to  Chippewa  Falls,  arriving  on  the  Saturday 
before  the  election  of  President  Garfield.  Willing  to  work  and  ambitious  to  suc- 
ceed, he  turned  to  the  lumber  woods  for  employment  and  for  about  ten  years  was 
so  engaged,  carefully  husbanding  his  resources  and  acquiring  the  means  which 
enabled  him  at  the  end  of  that  time  to  engage  in  the  sawmill  business  in  partner- 
ship with  his  father-in-law,  in  which  connection  he  continued  for  two  years.  He 
then  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  18,  township  31,  range 
7,  which  was  slightly  improved  and  on  which  he  found  a small  log  house  and  barn. 
That  his  indefatigable  labor  has  brought  results  is  evident  from  the  fact  that  he 
owns  today  two  hundred  and  ninety-three  acres,  one  hundred  of  which  are  in  a 
high  state  of  cultivation.  He  has  a substantial,  well  appointed  house  upon  the 
property  and  his  barns  are  modernly  equipped  and  in  every  way  adequate  to  his 
demands.  He  has  installed  modern  machinery  and  is  successfully  carrying  for- 
ward the  work  of  cultivation.  Of  late  he  has  bought  a handsome  home  on  Cedar 
street,  in  Chippewa  Falls,  and  it  is  his  intention  to  retire  from  an  active  agri- 
cultural life  and  to  move  to  the  city.  His  farm  will  then  be  taken  in  charge  by 
his  son  William. 

On  September  13,  1888,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Stewart  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Lida  Gordon,  a native  of  Eau  Claire  and  a daughter  of  L.  P.  Gordon, 
an  early  settler  and  a millwright  by  trade,  who  now  lives  with  his,  son  in  town- 
ship 31,  range  8.  Mrs.  Gordon  died  when  Mrs.  Stewart  was  but  a child.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Stewart  have  six  children:  William,  George,  Elsie,  Wealthy,  Earl  and 
Esther,  all  of  whom  are  yet  at  home.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Stewart  are  members  of  the 
Congregational  church,  to  the  work  of  which  they  contribute  in  a material  way,  also 
setting  up  examples  of  true  Christian  citizenship.  In  his  political  convictions 
Mr.  Stewart  is  a republican  and  has  served  for  one  year  on  the  township  board. 
For  six  years  he  held  the  important  position  of  township  treasurer,  doing  valu- 
able work  while  in  charge  of  the  finances  of  the  district.  He  has  always  deeply 
interested  himself  in  the  cause  of  education,  his  twenty  years’  service  as  school 
director  giving  undeniable  evidence  thereof.  As  the  years  have  passed  Mr.  Stew- 
art has  come  to  be  numbered  among  the  most  highly  valued  citizens  in  this 
part  of  Chippewa  county,  and  the  confidence  and  respect  which  he  readily  receives 
on  every  hand  are  given  in  due  recognition  of  what  he  has  attained  and  those 
qualities  of  his  heart  and  mind  which  have  made  it  possible  for  him  to  achieve 
the  prominent  place  which  he  now  occupies  in  his  community. 


ANTON  SOLBERG. 


Chippewa  county  has  been  singularly  fortunate  in  its  public  officials,  having 
always  had  men  of  ability,  honesty  and  public  spirit  to  administer  its  affairs. 
One  of  these  is  Anton  Solberg,  the  present  county  treasurer,  who  makes  his 
home  at  Chippewa  Falls.  In  the  fall  of  1883  he  came  to  Chippewa  county, 
having  crossed  the  ocean  from  Jarlsberg,  Norway,  where  he  was  born  in  i860, 


J 28 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


a son  of  Andrew  and  Karen  (Lean)  Solberg.  The  father  passed  away  in  1892 
in  his  native  country  and  the  mother  still  makes  her  home  there. 

Anton  Solberg  received  his  education  in  the  excellent  schools  of  Norway 
which  he  left  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years  in  order  to  go  to  sea.  Before  com- 
ing to  Wisconsin  he  was  a sailor  for  five  years  but  upon  arriving  here  he  hired 
out  for  work  in  the  lumber  camps  and  at  other  occupations  that  would  yield 
him  an  honest  living.  He  was  thus  engaged  for  some  years  and  then  ac- 
cepted a position  with  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company,  remaining 
in  that  position  for  eleven  years.  For  five  years  he  worked  as  a section  hand 
on  the  Soo  Line  and  for  twelve  years  he  followed  agricultural  pursuits,  at  the 
end  of  which  time  he  was  elected  to  his  present  position.  He  is  a republican 
in  politics  and  as  the  nominee  of  his  party  he  won  the  contest  for  election. 

In  1886,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Solberg  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Matilda  Hauge,  a daughter  of  Gulbrand  and  Maren  Hauge,  both  of  whom  spent 
their  entire  lives  in  Norway,  where  they  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Solberg 
have  seven  children,  all  of  whom  are  at  home,  namely,  Clara,  Axel,  Gudrun, 
Lillian,  Harry,  Valborg  and  Evelyn.  The  career  of  Mr.  Solberg  again  proves 
that  opportunities  are  awaiting  in  this  country  for  the  sons  of  all  nations.  That 
he  has  attained  to  the  important  position  he  now  holds  is  indeed  a credit  to 
him — a credit  to  his  character  and  the  high  qualities  of  his  mind,  the  recognition 
of  which  led  the  people  to  elect  him  to  this  place  of  trust. 


WILLIAM  SIMON. 


William  Simon  owns  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  sec- 
tions 9 and  16,  Tilden  township,  and  upon  this  property  has  resided  since  he 
was  two  years  of  age.  During  his  entire  active  iife  he  has  engaged  in  its  culti- 
vation and  it  reflects  today  in  its  excellent  condition  the  many  years  of  care 
and  labor  he  has  bestowed  upon  it.  Mr.  Simon  was  born  near  Tipton,  Iowa, 
April  3,  1858,  and  is  a son  of  Otto  and  Barbara  (Kreg)  Simon.  The  father 
came  from  Germany  by  way  of  New  York  to  Iowa,  where  for  a time  he  worked 
at  farm  labor,  later  moving  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  settled  upon  the 
farm  now  owned  by  the  subject  of  this  review.  He  began  with  eighty  acres 
and  gradually  added  to  his  holdings  until  at  the  time  of  his  death  he  owned 
two  hundred  acres.  He  passed  away  in  the  fall  of  1908,  having  survived  his 
wife  since  1903.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery. 

William  Simon  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Tilden,  laying 
aside  his  books  at  the  early  age  of  thirteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father 
with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  has  continued  active  in  the  operation  of  this 
property  since  that  time.  It  was  then  a wilderness  and  Mr.  Simon  assisted  in 
its  development,  felling  the  timber  and  erecting  the  necessary  buildings.  Upon 
the  death  of  his  father  he  came  into  possession  of  the  homestead  and  has  since 
carried  forward  the  work  of  its  cultivation  along  practical  and  modern  lines. 
He  has  erected  almost  all  of  the  buildings  upon  the  place,  including  fine  barns, 
one  of  which  is  one  of  the  largest  in  his  locality.  In  addition  to  general  farm- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


129 


ing  he  engages  extensively  in  stock-raising,  keeping  fine  herds  of  cattle  and  a 
number  of  horses. 

On  the  27th  of  November,  1883,  in  Tilden  township,  Mr.  Simon  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Maria  Gertrude  Hunc,  a daughter  of  Nicholas  and  Magda- 
lena Hunc,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  in  this  section  of  Wisconsin.  He 
died  in  1892  and  is  buried  in  Tilden.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Simon  have  two  children: 
Ludwig,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  and  Caroline,  at  home. 

Mr.  Simon  is  a member  of  the  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  church  of  Tilden  and  a 
democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  His  enterprise  and  industry  have  made  him 
prominent  in  agricultural  circles  and  he  has  won  for  himself  a creditable  repu- 
tation by  his  integrity  and  reliability  in  every  situation  in  which  he  has  been 
placed. 


CHARLES  H.  DICKINSON. 

Charles  H.  Dickinson,  owning  an  excellent  property  of  fifty-six  acres  on 
section  18,  Lafayette  township,  upon  which  he  has  established  himself  in  the 
marble  and  granite  monument  manufacturing  business,  is  numbered  among  the 
enterprising  and  successful  native  sons  of  Chippewa  county.  He  was  born 
March  1,  1863,  his  parents  being  Myron  C.  and  Jane  E.  (Russell)  Dickinson. 
The  father  came  to  this  county  in  1856,  among  the  early  settlers  here,  and  he 
took  up  his  residence  in  that  year  upon  the  farm  which  is  now  owned  by  the 
subject  of  this  review.  He  developed  and  improved  this  place  for  many  years, 
following  general  farming  here  until  his  death,  which  occurred  July  4,  1883, 
when  he  was  fifty-three  years  of  age.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1904,  dying 
at  the  age  of  sixty-nine.  Both  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  The  Dickin- 
son family  is  of  ancient  English  origin  and  the  line  can  be  traced  back  to  the 
time  of  William  the  Conqueror. 

Charles  H.  Dickinson  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward 
assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  spent  some  time  in  the  lum- 
ber woods,  continuing  thus  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age.  He  then  went 
to  Janesville,  on  a visit  to  his  uncle,  who  was  a marble  cutter,  and  there  he 
became  interested  in  that  business,  which  he  learned  in  principle  and  detail. 
However,  he  afterward  farmed  for  five  years  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  began 
work  as  a journeyman  marble  cutter,  continuing  in  this  way  until  he  established 
his  present  enterprise  upon  the  land  which  he  had  inherited  from  his  father. 
Being  able  and  enterprising,  he  has  secured  a large  patronage  and  his  business 
has  steadily  increased  in  volume  and  importance  until  he  controls  today  one  of 
the  largest  enterprises  of  this  character  in  the  county. 

On  the  25th  of  November,  1885,  on  the  farm  which  he  now  owns,  Mr. 
Dickinson  married  Miss  Mabel  E.  Billington,  a daughter  of  Lorenzo  and  Hanna 
(Mabbott)  Billington,  of  Arena,  Wisconsin.  The  father  engaged  in  the  general 
merchandise  business  in  that  city  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1897,  when 
he  was  sixty-nine  years  of  age.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in 
Le  Roy,  Minnesota.  The  family  is  of  English  origin. 


130 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Dickinson  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  church  and  is  a republican  in 
his  political  beliefs,  interested  in  everything  that  pertains  to  the  progress  and 
advancement  of  his  native  county.  He  is  one  of  the  active  and  progressive 
citizens  of  Lafayette  township,  a man  of  good  business  capacity  and  enterprise 
and  unquestioned  business  integrity,  enjoying  in  an  unusual  degree  the  confi- 
dence and  good-will  of  the  community. 


WILLIAM  H.  PHILLIPS. 

William  H.  Phillips  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  seventy-eight  acres 
on  section  25.  Lafayette  township,  a property  whereon  he  has  resided  since 
i860.  He  was  born  in  Lancaster,  New  York,  October  30,  1843,  and  is  a son 
of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Maydole)  Phillips,  the  former  of  whom  engaged  in 
farming  in  New  York  state  for  some  time.  He  afterward  moved  to  McHenry, 
Illinois,  where  his  death  occurred  in  1846,  when  he  was  forty-five  years  of 
age.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1893,  dying  in  Chippewa  county  at  the  age 
of  eighty-four.  She  is  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery,  while  her  husband  was 
laid  to  rest  in  McHenry,  Illinois.  The  family  is  of  Dutch  origin  and  its  repre- 
sentatives were  early  settlers  in  America. 

William  LI.  Phillips  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Illinois 
and  in  Lafayette  township,  whither  he  came  in  1857.  He  laid  aside  his  books 
at  the  age  of  seventeen  and  then  began  working  on  a farm  which  he  afterward 
purchased  and  which  has  remained  his  place  of  residence  to  the  present  time. 
In  February,  1864,  Mr.  Phillips  followed  the  call  of  duty  and  enlisted  in 
the  Fourth  Wisconsin  Cavalry  for  service  in  the  Civil  war.  He  was  honorably 
discharged  in  June,  1866,  having  for  about  a year  done  police  and  guard  duty 
on  the  Rio  Grande  river  after  the  close  of  the  war.  This  was  at  that  time  a 
very  wild  and  lawless  part  of  the  country  and  his  duties  were  severe  and  respon- 
sible ones.  When  he  had  moved  upon  his  land  the  tract  was  nothing  but  wild 
timber  and  prairie,  and  upon  his  return  he  again  took  up  the  work  of  clearing 
and  cultivating.  He  is  responsible  for  all  the  work  which  has  been  done  on 
the  place,  and  such  success  as  has  come  to  him  is  but  the  reward  of  diligent 
and  incessant  effort. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  on  the  25th  of  November,  1868,  Mr.  Phillips  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Laura  A.  Wilcox,  a daughter  of  Sylvanus  and  Mary 
Ann  (Lansing)  Wilcox,  the  former  a shoemaker  and  cook  by  trade.  He  was 
one  of  the  earliest  settlers  in  Chippewa  county  and  died  here  in  1870,  at  the 
age  of  fifty.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1911,  passing  away  when  she  was 
eighty-seven  years  of  age.  Mr.  Wilcox  was  laid  to  rest  in  Lafayette  cemetery, 
while  his  wife  was  buried  in  Tacoma,  Washington.  The  Wilcox  fam- 
ily is  of  English  origin,  while  the  Lansings  have  been  in  America  for  several 
generations.  Mrs.  Phillips’  father  took  part  in  the  Florida-Indian  war.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Phillips  became  the  parents  of  five  children : Meta,  who  died  when 
she  was  seven  years  of  age  and  is  buried  in  the  family  cemetery  in  Lafayette 
township;  George  H.,  a farmer  in  Union  township,  Eau  Claire  county;  Ida, 
who  married  John  Wilcox,  a farmer  in  Lafayette  township;  Edith,  the  wife  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


131 


A.  McDonald,  a merchant  in  Chippewa  Falls ; and  Beatrice,  who  married  Paul 
Hess,  a farmer  in  Sigel  township. 

Mr.  Phillips  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  is  a republican  in 
his  political  views.  He  has  been  town  clerk  for  many  years  and  has  made  an 
excellent  official  record,  his  work  being  at  all  times  straightforward,  conscien- 
tious and  reliable.  He  is  today  in  control  of  a very  valuable  farming  property, 
upon  which  he  has  made  substantial  improvements  and  which  represents  many 
years  of  care  and  labor. 


JOHN  NILSON. 

John  Nilson,  an  industrious  and  successful  agriculturist  of  Holcombe  town- 
ship, is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  eighty  acres  on  section  28,  township  31,  range 
6,  but  for  the  past  six  years  has  worked  on  the  farm  of  Mrs.  Jennie  Hendrick- 
son, which  adjoins  his  property.  He  was  born  in  Sweden  on  the  15th  of  Decem- 
ber, 1861,  a son  of  Nils  Jacobson,  who  died  in  that  country.  In  1887,  when  a 
young  man  of  twenty-six  years,  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States 
and,  making  his  way  to  Wisconsin,  worked  for  a number  of  years  in  the  lumber 
woods  and  on  the  river.  During  the  past  six  years  he  has  worked  on  the  farm 
of  Mrs.  Jennie  Hendrickson  in  Holcombe  township,  where  he  also  owns  a tract 
of  eighty  acres  which  he  purchased  when  it  was  all  wild  land.  He  has  cleared  about 
twenty  acres  thereof,  has  erected  a residence  and  barn  and  also  set  out  fruit 
trees. 

Energetic  and  enterprising,  he  has  met  with  excellent  results  in  his  under- 
takings as  an  agriculturist  and  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  substantial  citizens  of 
his  community.  He  has  never  married  and  makes  his  home  with  Mrs.  Hen- 
drickson, whose  farm,  as  above  stated,  adjoins  his  own. 


BERT  A.  SYVERSON. 

Wisconsin  is  certainly  an  Eldorado  for  the  agriculturist.  Her  land,  natu- 
rally rich  and  productive,  responds  readily  to  cultivation  and  the  meadows  afford 
splendid  pasturage  for  stock.  It  is  then  to  be  expected  that  the  farmers  and 
dairymen  win  success  if  they  are  persistent,  earnest  and  honorable  in  the  con- 
duct of  their  business  interests.  Such  a man  is  Bert  A.  Syverson,  who  owns  a 
farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section  twenty-eight,  Howard  township.  He  has  been 
a resident  of  Chippewa  county  only  since  1900,  but  is  numbered  among  Wiscon- 
sin’s native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Trempealeau  county  on  the  14th 
of  May,  1873.  He  is  a son  of  Arnt  and  Anna  Marie  (Benson)  Syverson.  The 
mother  is  now  living  with  her  son,  Benhart,  the  father  having  passed  away  in 
July,  1910,  his  grave  being  in  a cemetery  of  Trempealeau  county. 

It  was  in  the  schools  of  his  native  country  that  Bert  A.  Syverson  pursued 
his  education,  continuing  his  studies  to  the  age  of  eighteen  years.  He  after- 
wards accepted  any  employment  that  would  yield  him  an  honest  living,  working 


132 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  various  ways  for  about  ten  years,  or  until  1900,  when  he  came  to  Chippewa 
county  and  invested  the  money,  which  he  had  saved  from  his  earnings,  in  eighty 
acres  of  land.  He  has  since  lived  on  this  tract,  of  section  28,  Howard  township, 
and  has  fifty-five  acres  under  cultivation  devoted  to  general  farming.  He  keeps 
three  horses  to  work  his  place  and  also  about  twenty  head  of  cattle.  Substan- 
tial improvements  have  been  made  upon  his  land.  Well  kept  fences  divide  the 
place  into  fields  of  convenient  size,  and  as  the  years  go  by,  he  is  transforming 
his  farm  into  one  of  the  well  developed  properties  of  the  township. 

Mr.  Syverson  was  married  in  Trempealeau  county  in  1899  to  Miss  Lena 
Olson,  daughter  of  Ole  and  Parnilla  Olson,  natives  of  Norway,  where  they 
still  reside.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Syverson  have  five  children:  Mabel  P.,  Olga  R., 

Elleda  O.,  Norman  W.,  and  Borgheld  V. 

No  event  of  great  importance  has  occurred  to  vary  the  routine  of  farm  life 
for  Mr.  Syverson,  yet  his  life  work  constitutes  an  example  worthly  of  emula- 
tion, showing  what  may  be  accomplished  when  determination  and  energy  con- 
stitute the  salient  features  in  a man’s  character. 


WILLIAM  PRINCE. 

William  Prince,  identified  with  general  farming  in  Howard  township,  is 
numbered  among  those  citizens  whose  lives  are  proof  of  the  attractiveness  of 
Chippewa  county  as  a place  of  residence.  Numbered  among  the  native  sons 
of  the  county,  he  has  by  preference  remained  within  its  borders,  recognizing 
the  fact  that  there  is  no  better  investment  than  Wisconsin  farm  land  and  that 
the  various  opportunities  and  advantages  here  afforded  are  surpassed  nowhere. 
His  place  embraces  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  rich  and  productive  land 
on  section  9,  Howard  township.  He  was  born  on  the  2d  of  December,  1879,  his 
parents  being  Andrew  and  Sarah  (Corrigan)  Prince,  well  known  and  highly 
esteemed  residents  of  this  county.  The  father  is  of  French  extraction  and  the 
mother  of  Irish. 

William  Prince  obtained  his  education  in  Chippewa  county  and  left  school 
at  the  age  of  fifteen,  subsequently  assisting  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the 
home  farm  for  about  nine  years.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  started 
out  as  an  agriculturist  on  his  own  account,  coming  into  possession  of  a tract 
of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  9,  Howard  township,  where  he  has 
carried  on  mixed  farming  to  the  present  time.  He  keeps  about  five  horses,  fifteen 
cattle  and  twenty-two  hogs.  The  residence  and  other  buildings  on  the  farm, 
which  were  erected  by  him,  are  modern  and  substantial  structures.  His  labors 
are  intelligently  directed  and  his  enterprise  is  bringing  him  well  merited  success. 

On  the  29th  of  September,  1903,  in  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  church,  in  Bloomer, 
Wisconsin,  Mr.  Prince  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss  Mary  Swartz,  a daughter 
of  John  and  Kate  (Sickora)  Swartz,  who  are  residents  of  Chippewa  county. 
Our  subject  and  his  wife  now  have  three  children  living,  Evelyn,  Ethel  and 
Charlotte,  and  two  deceased. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Prince  is  independent,  considering  the  capability 
and  fitness  of  a candidate  as  of  more  importance  than  his  party  affiliation  and 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


133 


supporting  the  measures  that  he  deems  will  most  quickly  promote  the  general 
welfare.  In  religious  faith  he  is  a Catholic,  member  of  SS.  Peter  and  Paul 
church  of  Auburn.  Both  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Prince  are  widely  recognized  as  people 
of  genuine  personal  worth  and  of  many  sterling  traits  of  character. 


WILLIAM  HILP. 

Farming  and  dairy  interests  of  Chippewa  county  find  a progressive  and 
worthy  representative  in  William  Hilp,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of 
eighty  acres  on  section  27,  Lafayette  township.  He  has  resided  in  that  locality 
since  he  was  nine  months  old  but  was  born  at  Sulzfeld,  Baden,  Germany,  July  29, 
1880.  His  parents  are  John  and  Christine  Hilp,  natives  of  Germany,  who  in 
1881  settled  in  this  section,  where  the  father  has  since  engaged  in  farming.  He 
is  a substantial  agriculturist  and  a progressive  and  public-spirited  citizen,  holding 
the  esteem  and  respect  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 

William  Hilp  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Lafayette 
township  and,  being  the  eldest  son,  was  obliged  to  lay  aside  his  books  at  the  early 
age  of  fourteen  in  order  to  assist  his  father.  He  remained  at  home  until  after 
his  marriage  and  then  purchased  eighty  acres  on  section  27,  Lafayette  town- 
ship, upon  which  he  has  since  resided,  steadily  carrying  forward  the  work  of 
development.  He  has  erected  a comfortable  residence,  good  barns  and  out- 
buildings, and  upon  the  property  engages  in  mixed  farming  and  dairying, 
both  branches  proving  important  and  profitable  under  his  able  management. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  19th  of  June,  1909,  Mr.  Hilp  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Emma  Buttenhofif,  a daughter  of  William  Buttenhoff,  a resident  of 
Chippewa  Falls.  They  have  two  children,  Agnes  and  Herman.  Mr.  Hilp  is  a 
member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs,  taking  an  intelligent  interest  in  the  welfare  and  progress  of  the  town- 
ship. He  is  widely  known  in  Chippewa  county  and  his  substantial  characteris- 
tics have  gained  him  the  warm  regard  and  unqualified  confidence  of  his  fellow 
citizens. 


OLOF  NYSTROM. 

Olof  Nystrom,  a representative  agriculturist  and  esteemed  citizen  of  Hol- 
combe township,  is  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  sec- 
tions 26  and  27,  township  31,  range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Sweden  on  the 
17th  of  June,  i860,  his  parents  being  Nels  John  and  Anna  Martha  (Johnson) 
Anderson,  both  of  whom  passed  away  in  that  country.  In  1882,  when  a young 
man  of  twenty-two  years,  Mr.  Nystrom  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States 
and,  making  his  way  to  Wisconsin,  engaged  in  lumbering  at  Rice  Lake.  In 
1884  he  returned  to  Sweden  but  two  years  later  again  came  to  this  country 
and  located  in  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  here  devoting  his  attention  to  lum- 
bering at  Estella,  near  the  site  of  his  present  farm.  In  1892  he  purchased  one 


134 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  in  Holcombe  township  that  was  but  slightly 
improved,  the  buildings  thereon  being  a small  house  and  barn.  He  has  cleared 
sixty  acres  of  the  place  and  has  also  erected  a substantial  frame  residence  and 
good  barn.  In  his  undertakings  as  a general  farmer  he  has  won  well  merited 
success,  his  well  tilled  fields  annually  yielding  golden  harvests  as  a reward 
for  the  care  and  labor  which  he  bestows  upon  them.  Thirteen  years  ago  he 
sent  his  family  to  Sweden  and  went  to  the  Klondike,  where  he  spent  two  years. 
He  then  joined  his  family  in  Sweden  and  at  the  end  of  six  months’  sojourn 
there  returned  with  his  wife  and  children  to  his  farm  in  this  county.  Subse- 
quently he  again  made  his  way  to  Alaska,  remaining  in  the  north  for  another 
period  of  two  years. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Nystrom  chose 
Miss  Carrie  Oleson,  a native  of  Sweden,  their  marriage  taking  place  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  August  15,  1891.  They  have  six  children,  as  follows:  Anna  Elsie,  a 
graduate  of  the  Cornell  high  school,  who  attended  the  normal  school  at  Stevens 
Point,  Wisconsin,  and  has  followed  the  profession  of  teaching  for  three  years; 
Esther  Gunhild,  who  graduated  from  the  high  school  at  Chippewa  Falls  as 
valedictorian  of  the  class  of  1912  and  has  taught  school  for  one  year;  and  Val- 
demar  Oliver,  Ansel  W.,  Arne  O.  and  Bechtel  J.,  all  at  home. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Nystrom  is  a stanch  republican,  exercising  his 
right  of  franchise  in  support  of  the  men  and  measures  of  that  party.  His  relig- 
ious faith  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  a man  of  many  sterling  traits 
of  character  as  well  as  of  good  business  ability,  and  high  regard  is  uniformly 
tendered  him. 


JAMES  R.  MURPHY. 

Among  the  law  firms  of  Chippewa  county  is  none  which, enjoys  a higher  repu- 
tation than  that  of  Murphy  & Browne,  located  at  Chippewa  Falls,  where  they 
conduct  an  extensive  and  important  business  which  connects  them  with  much  of 
the  litigation  before  the  local  courts.  James  R.  Murphy,  the  senior  partner  of 
the  firm,  came  to  Chippewa  county  on  August  15,  1887,  from  Richibucto,  New 
Brunswick,  Canada,  where  he  was  born  January  7,  1877,  a son  of  Constantine  C. 
Murphy.  The  mother  before  her  marriage  was  Miss  Ellen  Roach.  In  1887  the 
parents  came  to  this  section  and  here  the  father  died  on  February  22,  1905,  at 
the  age  of  seventy-eight,  finding  his  last  resting  place  at  Chippewa  Falls.  There 
the  mother  is  still  living. 

James  R.  Murphy  received  his  primary  education  in  New  Brunswick,  which 
he  left  at  the  age  of  about  ten  years,  subsequently  attending  Notre  Dame  high 
school  at  Chippewa  Falls,  from  which  he  graduated  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  He 
then  taught  school  for  about  seven  years  and  in  that  time  also  attended  the 
Superior  State  Normal  School  at  Superior,  Wisconsin,  from  which  he  graduaded. 
Becoming  principle  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school,  he  remained  there  for  five 
years,  and  also  conducted  the  Teachers’  Institute  for  four  years.  Entering  the 
University  of  Wisconsin,  he  graduated  from  the  law  department  at  Madison  in 
1910  and  has  since  that  time  engaged  in  the  practice  of  law  in  Chippewa  Falls,  nav- 


JAMES  R.  MURPHY 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


137 


ingbeen  in  this  city  now  about  three  years.  Not  only  is  he  well  versed  in  the  law 
but  has  also  deeply  studied  humanity  as  a teacher  and  brings  to  his  profession 
many  qualities  which  spell  success.  He  ably  supplements  the  work  of  his  younger 
partner  and  important  cases  have  been  at  various  times  entrusted  to  their  care. 

In  April,  1911,  he  was  appointed  city  attorney  for  the  city  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
which  position  he  still  holds.  During  his  incumbency  in  office  the  rights  and  inter- 
ests of  the  city  have  been  guarded  and  protected  in  an  exceptionally  able  and  fear- 
less manner,  and  his  prudence,  tact  and  vigilance  have  annually  saved  thousands 
of  dollars  for  his  city.  He  resides  at  No.  21  North  Prairie  street,  Chippewa 
Falls.  Mr.  Murphy  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  church  and  is  well  known  in  the 
Catholic  Order  of  Foresters,  the  Knights  of  Columbus  and  the  Ancient  Order 
of  Hibernians. 


GEORGE  E.  BEESTON. 

George  E.  Beeston,  carrying  on  dairy  fanning  upon  a highly  improved 
tract  of  eighty  acres  on  section  19,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  in  Adams 
county,  Wisconsin,  October  4,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  Reuben  and  Sarah  A. 
(Williamson)  Beeston.  The  father  came  from  England  in  1852  and  settled 
in  Cook  county,  Illinois,  whence  he  moved  in  pioneer  times  to  Adams  county, 
Wisconsin.  There  he  took  up  a homestead  claim  of  wild  land,  which  he 
improved  by  clearing  the  brush  and  timber  and  breaking  the  soil,  afterward 
carrying  forward  the  work  of  development  along  practical  lines.  He  served 
in  the  Union  army  during  the  Civil  war  and  was  at  all  times  progressive  and 
public-spirited  in  matters  of  citizenship,  serving  as  chairman  of  the  township 
board  of  Monroe  township  and  as  poor  commissioner  of  Adams  county  He 
died  in  1904,  at  the  age  of  seventy-eight,  and  is  buried  in  the  Strongs  Prairie 
cemetery,  Adams  county.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  at 
Nekoosa,  at  the  age  of  eighty  years. 

George  E.  Beeston  acquired  his  education  in  district  school  in  Adams  county 
and  in  high  school  at  Necedah,  from  which  he  was  graduated  at  the  age  of 
nineteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  until 
he  was  thirty-one  years  of  age  and  then  rented  land  until  he  bought  his  present 
property.  This  comprises  eighty  acres  and  under  his  able  management  has 
been  increased  to  eight  times  its  original  value.  He  specializes  in  dairying  and 
keeps  a large  herd  of  Jersey  cattle  for  this  purpose,  his  dairy  products  com- 
manding a high  price  and  a ready  sale  upon  the  market. 

In  Monroe  township,  Adams  county,  on  the  4th  of  October,  1893,  Mr. 
Beeston  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Edith  Ayers,  a daughter  of  J.  B.  Ayers, 
a pioneer  farmer  of  that  section,  who  died  in  1898  and  is  buried  in  South  Burr 
Oak  cemetery  in  Richfield  township.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her 
home  at  Coloma.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Beeston  became  the  parents  of  two  children, 
Gladys  E.  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Beeston  is  a devout  member  of  the  Methodist  church.  He  is  a republi- 
can in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  especially  interested  in  the  educational  advance- 
ment of  the.  county,  serving  at  the  present  time  as  clerk  of  the  district  school 

Vol.  II— S 


138 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


board.  As  a resident  of  this  township  he  is  loyal  in  his  advocacy  of  everything 
pertaining  to  its  welfare  and  has  made  some  substantial  contributions  to  its 
development  and  progress. 


ANTON  TUSCHL. 

Farm  work  claims  the  time  and  energy  of  Anton  Tuschl  who  in  the  devel- 
opment of  his  place  is  specializing  in  the  raising  of  grain.  He  owns  a good 
tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  9,  Howard  township  and 
he  possesses  the  spirit  of  enterprise  and  resolution,  characteristic  of  the  Ger- 
man race.  He  arrived  in  Chippewa  county  in  1908,  coming  direct  to  this  section 
upon  his  arrival  in  the  new  world.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  the  year  1855 
and  is  a son  of  Leonard  and  Maria  Tuschl,  both  of  whom  spent  their  entire  life 
in  Germany. 

The  schools  of  that  land  afforded  Anton  Tuschl  his  educational  opportuni- 
ties, but  his  advantages  were  somewhat  limited,  for  he  left  school  at  the  age  of 
twelve  years.  His  time  was  then  given  to  assisting  his  father,  with  whom  he 
worked  until  he  reached  the  age  of  twenty-five  years,  after  which  time  he 
hired  out  as  a farm  hand,  being  thus  employed  until  he  determined  to  come 
to  the  new  world.  He  had  heard  favorable  reports  concerning  the  opportuni- 
ties offered  in  America  and  hoping  to  improve  his  condition,  he  bade  adieu  to 
friends  and  fatherland  and  sailed  for  the  United  States.  He  has  never  had 
occasion  to  regret  this  step  and  during  his  residence  here  he  has  made  contin- 
uous advancement.  He  is  now  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  rich 
and  productive  land,  pleasantly  situated  in  the  vicinity  of  Colfax.  All  modern 
improvements  and  equipments  are  found  upon  his  farm  and  everything  about 
the  place  indicates  his  careful  supervision  and  progressive  methods.  He  has 
erected  a substantial  residence  and  good  farm  buildings,  and  the  place  presents 
a neat  and  thrifty  appearance.  He  devotes  his  land  to  the  raising  of  grain  and 
annually  harvests  good  crops. 

He  belongs  to  the  Catholic  church  and  is  interested  in  matters  pertaining 
to  the  welfare  of  the  county  along  many  lines.  Although  he  has  been  a resident 
of  this  section  of  the  state  for  but  a comparatively  brief  period,  he  has  become 
well  known  and  has  gained  many  friends  during  the  past  five  years. 


WILLIAM  McILQUHAM. 

William  Mcllquham  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  the  past 
three  decades  and  is  a substantial  and  representative  agriculturist  of  Anson 
township,  owning  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  11,  town- 
ship 29.  His  birth  occurred  near  Drummond,  Lanark  county,  Ontario,  on  tire 
1 6th  of  September,  1859,  his  parents  being  James  and  Mary  (Spalding)  Mcll- 
quham, both  of  whom  are  deceased  and  lie  buried  in  the  Lanark  cemetery  of 
Ontario.  The  father,  who  was  successfully  engaged  in  farming  throughout  his 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


139 


active  business  career,  passed  away  near  Drummond.  Lanark  county,  in  1901, 
when  seventy-eight  years  of  age,  having  for  eight  years  survived  his  wife, 
who  was  called  to  her  final  rest  in  1893,  a*  ^ie  age  of  seventy-one.  The  family 
is  of  old  Scotch  origin. 

William  Mcllquham,  in  the  acquirement  of  his  education,  attended  various 
schools  in  his  native  province,  leaving  the  agricultural  college  at  Guelph,  Ontario, 
when  a young  man  of  nineteen  years.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  in  the 
operation  of  the  home  farm  for  a time  and  subsequently  crossed  the  border 
into  the  LTnited  States,  securing  employment  in  the  lumber  woods  and  being  thus 
engaged  during  fourteen  winter  seasons.  In  the  summer  months  he  worked 
on  the  railroad  or  at  general  carpentering  in  Wisconsin  and  in  the  Rocky  moun- 
tains. It  was  in  the  year  1891  that  he  purchased  the  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  which  he  now  operates  in  Anson  township,  Chippewa  county,  which 
was  at  that  time  partially  improved  but  had  no  buildings.  As  the  years  have 
gone  by  Mr.  Mcllquham  has  brought  the  land  to  a high  state  of  cultivation  and 
has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  on  his  property,  which  in  its  neat  and  attractive 
appearance  indicates  the  supervision  of  a practical  and  progressive  owner.  The 
prosperity  which  he  now  enjoys  is  but  the  merited  reward  of  his  well  directed 
industry,  untiring  perseverance  and  capable  management. 

On  the  8th  of  October,  1896,  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Mcllquham  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Jessie  Brainard,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  James 
Brainard.  The  father,  an  early  pioneer  of  this  county,  is  still  living  at  the 
age  of  eighty-five  years,  but  the  mother  is  deceased  and  lies  buried  in  the  Anson 
cemetery.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  seven  sons,  as  follows:  William  A., 
who  assists  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  farm;  James  A.,  John  Dowie 
and  Walter  S.,  all  of  whom  are  attending  school ; David  Theodore ; Robert  A. ; 
and  Lawrence. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Mcllquham  is  independent,  supporting  men  and 
measures  rather  than  party.  Hrs  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership 
in  the  Church  of  Zion.  He  is  an  enterprising  and  progressive  citizen  and  has 
well  earned  the  confidence  and  esteem  not  only  of  the  people  of  his  own  town- 
ship but  of  the  well  disposed  citizens  in  the  county. 


PATRICK  O’DONNELL. 

Patrick  O’Donnell  needs  no  introduction  to  the  readers  of  this  volume  for 
since  1884  he  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  and  during  the  entire  period  of 
his  active  life  has  been  connected  with  agricultural  pursuits  here.  He  was 
born  in  Peterboro,  Canada,  September  23,  1870,  and  is  a son  of  Patrick 
and  Margaret  (Ryan)  O’Donnell,  the  former  of  whom  engaged  in  farming 
in  Canada.  He  came  with  his  family  to  Chippewa  county  in  1884  but  died 
one  year  later,  at  the  age  of  sixty-three.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1899, 
dying  when  she  was  fifty-eight  years  of  age.  Both  are  buried  in  Mount  Cal- 
vary cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls. 

Patrick  O’Donnell  acquired  his  education  partly  in  Canada  and  partly  in 
the  district  schools  of  Chippewa  county.  Lie  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age 


1-40 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  seventeen  and  afterward  worked  during  the  winter  months  in  the  lumber 
woods,  spending  his  summers  assisting  in  the  operation  of  his  mother’s  farm. 
After  her  death  he  inherited  half  of  the  property  and  he  bought  the  other 
half  from  her  brother  Peter,  his  holdings  now  comprising  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  on  section  29,  Lafayette  township.  Upon  this  he  has  made  excellent 
improvements,  erecting  a good  residence,  a large  barn  and  other  buildings, 
and  he  has  worked  diligently  and  capably  to  attain  the  success  which  he  now 
enjoys. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  14th  of  October,  1903,  Mr.  O’Donnell  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Dell  Thibeau,  a daughter  of  Telesphore  Thibeau,  a native 
of  Kankakee,  Illinois,  who  engaged  in  farming  for  a number  of  years.  He 
and  his  wife  now  reside  in  Chippewa  Falls. 

Mr.  O’Donnell  is  a member  of  the  Holy  Ghost  Catholic  church,  is  a democrat 
in  his  political  beliefs  and  belongs  to  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and 
St.  Joseph's  society.  There  are  few  citizens  of  this  county  more  widely  and 
favorably  known  than  he,  for  his  enterprise  has  carried  him  forward  into 
important  relations  with  agricultural  interests  and  his  friendly  spirit  and  unfail- 
ing courtesy  have  gained  him  the  warm  and  lasting  regard  of  those  with  whom 
he  has  been  brought  in  contact. 


FRANK  J.  LAVELLE. 

Frank  J.  Lavelle,  prominently  connected  with  business  interests  of  Cadott  as 
a dealer  in  harness,  buggies  and  farm  implements,  was  born  in  Eau  Claire, 
Wisconsin,  April  1,  1871.  He  is  a son  of  Patrick  and  Nora  (Culbert)  Lavelle, 
the  former  born  in  Ireland  in  1833  and  the  latter  in  Canada  in  1834.  The 
father  emigrated  to  the  Dominion  in  1854,  working  as  a laborer  there  for  some 
time,  after  which  he  moved  to  Michigan,  where  he  spent  five  years.  He  then 
moved  to  Eau  Claire,  this  state,  engaging  in  the  lumber  business  there  until 
his  death,  which  occurred  on  the  15th  of  July,  1901.  He  had  long  survived  his 
wife,  who  passed  away  in  1875.  To  their  union  were  born  three  children,  Frank 
J.,  Anna  L.  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 

Frank  J.  Lavelle  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
city,  laying  aside  his  books  when  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward 
learned  the  harness-making  trade,  working  at  it  for  five  years  in  Eau  Claire. 
In  1890  he  came  to  Cadott,  where  he  became  connected  with  H.  W.  Frase  in  the 
latter’s  harness  shop.  After  three  years  Mr.  Lavelle  purchased  the  enterprise 
and  has  since  added  a line  of  buggies  and  farm  machinery.  He  controls  an 
important  and  growing  patronage,  which  has  been  accorded  to  him  in  recogni- 
tion of  his  well  selected  stock  of  goods,  his  reasonable  prices  and  his  honorable 
and  straightforward  business  methods.  He  owns  two  business  houses  in  Cadott 
and  is  vice  president  of  the  State  Bank  of  the  city,  his  ability  being  known  and 
recognized  in  business  circles.  He  is  also  connected  with  agricultural  interests 
of  his  locality  as  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  in  Sigel  township. 

Mr.  Lavelle  was  married  on  the  12th  of  September,  1892,  to  Miss  Jennie 
Snyder,  a daughter  of  Richard  and  May  (Sharp)  Snyder,  the  former  foreman 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


141 


in  the  spoke  factory  of  the  Clarke  Manufacturing  Company  in  Cadott.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Lavelle  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children:  Harry,  who  was 
born  in  1900  and  who  died  in  1901  ; and  Doris,  born  February  23,  1904. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Lavelle  is  connected  with  the  Knights  of  Pythias,  the  Equi- 
table Fraternal  Union,  the  Owls  and  the  Beavers.  His  political  allegiance  is 
given  to  the  democratic  party.  He  was  for  five  years  a member  of  the  village 
board  and  served  as  president  of  the  school  board  for  fifteen  years,  the  cause 
of  education  finding  in  him  a loyal  and  able  supporter.  He  was  also  for  twelve 
years  chief  of  the  fire  department  of  Cadott.  His  enterprise  and  industry  have 
carried  him  forward  into  important  relations  with  business  affairs  and  he  has 
won  for  himself  a most  creditable  reputation  by  his  enterprise  and  reliability  in 
every  relation  in  which  he  has  been  found. 


HENRY  G.  MEIDER. 

Henry  G.  Meider  owns  a fine  dairy  farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section  27, 
Lafayette  township,  and  by  well  directed  efforts  and  practical  labor  has  gained 
a success  which  places  him  among  the  substantial  and  prosperous  agriculturists 
of  his  locality.  He  was  born  in  Washington  county,  this  state,  February  22, 
1865,  and  is  a son  of  Martin  and  Margaret  (Schlicher)  Meider,  the  former  of 
whom  came  from  Germany  in  1852  and  settled  on  a tract  of  wild  land  in  that 
locality.  With  characteristic  energy  he  cleared  the  timber  from  his  farm,  broke 
the  soil  and  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  cultivation,  becoming 
a successful  farmer  and  a representative  citizen.  He  and  his  wife  had  six  chil- 
dren: Henry  G.,  of  this  review;  John,  who  resides  upon  the  homestead;  Mar- 

garet, the  wife  of  Charles  Holly,  a farmer  in  Columbia  county;  Gotlieb,  engaged 
in  farming  in  Lafayette  township ; and  Leonard  and  William,  both  of  whom 
died  in  Waukesha,  Wisconsin.  The  former  is  buried  in  that  citv  and  the  latter 
was  laid  to  rest  in  the  Erin  cemetery,  Washington  county.  The  father  of  the 
subject  of  this  review  passed  away  in  1885  and  he  is  also  buried  in  the  Erin 
cemetery.  His  wife  survives  him  and  resides  upon  the  home  farm. 

Henry  G.  Meider  received  a very  limited  education,  for  even  before  he  left 
school  he  spent  a great  deal  of  time  assisting  his  father  with  the  work  of  the 
homestead  and  when  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age  laid  aside  his  books  in  order 
to  give  all  of  his  attention  to  farm  labor.  At  the  end  of  seven  years  he  became 
an  employe  of  the  Wisconsin  Central  Railroad,  working  in  various  capacities 
for  four  years,  after  which  he  bought  a farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section  27, 
Lafayette  township.  Upon  this  property  he  has  since  resided  and  he  has  erected 
unon  it  a comfortable  residence,  good  barns  and  substantial  outbuildings.  He 
engages  in  dairy  farming,  keeping  a fine  herd  of  milch  cows,  and  he  has  been 
very  successful,  because  his  methods  have  always  been  practical  and  farsighted. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  August  29,  1900,  Mr.  Meider  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Mary  Morin,  a daughter  of  Michael  and  Julia  Morin,  who  came  to 
Chippewa  county  in  1868.  The  father  has  since  engaged  in  farming  and  car- 
pentering and  is  one  of  the  earliest  living  settlers  in  this  county.  He  and  his 
wife  celebrated  their  golden  wedding  anniversary  in  1904  and  are  among  the 


142 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


best  known  and  most  highly  respected  residents  of  this  community.  The  father 
has  reached  the  age  of  eighty  and  the  mother  is  seventy-nine  years  of  age.  In 
their  family  were  five  children  besides  the  wife  of  the  subject  of  this  review: 
Dr.  John  B.,  of  Detroit,  Michigan;  Julia,  the  widow  of  Paul  Felix,  a contractor 
of  Chippewa  Falls;  Napoleon,  who  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-eight  and  is 
buried  in  Sagniaw,  Michigan;  Michael,  who  has  passed  away  and  is  buried  in 
Stratford,  Canada ; and  Artemus,  deceased,  who  is  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Meider  have  four  children : William  and  Henrietta,  who  are 
attending  school;  Edna;  and  Rene. 

Mr.  Meider  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  is  independent 
in  his  political  views,  voting  for  men  and  measures  without  regard  to  party 
lines.  Upright  character  and  sterling  worth  have  gained  him  a favorable  place 
in  the  regard  of  many  friends  and  Lafayette  township  numbers  him  among  her 
valued  and  representative  citizens. 


CHARLES  F.  SCHULTZ. 

Charles  F.  Schultz,  a representative  of  a well  known  pioneer  family  .of  Wis- 
consin and  one  of  the  most  prominent  and  substantial  agriculturists  of  Sigel 
township,  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  sec- 
tions 28  and  29,  a property  upon  which  he  has  resided  since  he  was  three  years 
of  age.  He  was  born  in  Washington  county,  this  state,  September  6,  1859,  and 
is  a son  of  Carl  and  Johanna  (Borchardt)  Schultz,  natives  of  Germany,  the 
former  born  March  5,  1816,  and  the  latter  in  1822.  The  father  came  to  Jefferson 
county,  Wisconsin,  about  the  year  1855,  moving  into  Washington  county  three 
years  later.  He  later  took  up  a government  homestead  claim  in  Sigel  township 
acquiring  eighty  acres  of  land  and  moved  with  his  family  to  that  township,  this 
county.  The  journey  was  made  with  ox  teams  over  a road  which  the  men  of 
the  party  chopped  through  the  brush  and  timber  in  order  that  the  carts  mighr 
pass  through.  This  is  now  the  upper  or  north  road  to  Chippewa  Falls  from 
the  Chippewa  bridge  to  a point  on  section  28,  township  29,  range  6 west,  where 
the  farm  upon  which  the  family  settled  in  pioneer  times  is  located.  The  father 
continued  to  reside  in  Chippewa  county  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in 
1910.  He  had  survived  his  wife  ten  years.  Twelve  children  were  born  to  their 
union,  as  follows:  August;  Minnie;  Caroline;  William,  who  has  passed  away; 
Augusta;  Henrietta;  Bertha;  Charles  F. ; Henry;  Amelia;  August;  and  one  who 
died  in  infancy. 

Charles  F.  Schultz  was  reared  upon  his  father’s  farm  in  Sigel  township  and 
attended  district  school  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  Even  before  laying 
aside  his  books  he  assisted  with  the  operation  of  the  homestead  and  in  1881 
assumed  entire  charge  of  the  property.  This  he  inherited  after  the  death  of 
his  parents  and  he  still  owns  the  place,  which  is  one  of  the  finest  and  best- 
improved  farms  in  Sigel  township.  The  property  comprises  two  hundred  and 
forty  acres  and  lies  on  sections  28  and  29  and  upon  it  Mr.  Schultz  engages  in 
general  farming  and  stock-raising,  keeping  fifty  hogs,  twenty-eight  head  of 
Durham  cattle  and  nine  horses.  He  also  specializes  in  dairying  and  his  interests 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


143 

are  all  carefully  conducted,  so  that  he  is  meeting  with  that  success  which  always 
follows  earnest  and  persistent  labor. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  24th  of  April,  1883,  Mr.  Schultz  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Caroline  Spaeth,  a daughter  of  Gottlieb  and  Barbara  (Meyer) 
Spaeth,  the  former  a well  known  farmer,  who  was  a companion  of  the  father 
of  the  subject  of  this  review  on  the  overland  journey  into  Chippewa  county. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Schultz  have  four  children.  Annie  married  Frank  Filtz,  identi- 
fied with  the  firm  of  Filtz  & Sons,  box  manufacturers  in  Cadott.  They  have  one 
son,  Walter.  The  other  members  of  the  Schultz  family  are  Arthur,  Laura  and 
Walter. 

Mr.  Schultz  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in 
his  political  beliefs.  For  over  thirty  years  he  was  treasurer  of  the  school  board 
and  he- served  for  two  years  as  supervisor  and  for  one  as  assessor,  discharging 
his  public  duties  in  a capable,  conscientious  and  efficient  way.  He  is  one  of 
the  most  highly  esteemed  and  respected  farmers  of  Sigel  township  and  holds 
the  confidence  and  regard  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


ADAM  HAAG. 

Adam  Haag  is  now  living  retired  in  Delmar  township  after  many  years  of 
close  and  prominent  connection  with  agricultural  interests  of  this  locality.  The 
farm  upon  which  he  resides  comprises  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  lying  on 
section  36,  township  29,  range  6 west,  and  upon  it  he  has  made  his  home  since 
he  was  twenty-one  years  of  age,  making  during  that  time  many  substantial 
contributions  to  agricultural  development  and  progress.  He  was  born  in  Ger- 
many, December  9,  1844,  and  is  a son  of  George  A.  and  Rosina  K.  (Schmidt) 
Haag,  also  natives  of  that  country,  the  former  born  August  8,  1804,  and  the  latter 
in  1811.  The  father  was  one  of  the  early  settlers  in  Wisconsin,  having  come  to 
Washington  county,  this  state,  in  1854.  He  moved  to  Chippewa  county  in 
1864  and  made  his  home  with  his  sons  until  his  death  in  1872.  He  was  a man 
of  great  benevolence  and  kindliness  of  spirit  and  his  passing  was  deeply  regretted 
by  his  many  friends.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  six  children:  Joseph, 
Mary  and  Casper  have  passed  away;  John  is  a retired  farmer,  living  in  Cadott. 
He  married  Miss  Anna  C.  WYbert  and  they  have  twelve  children.  Katherine  is 
a resident  of  Oklahoma.  She  married  George  Meinhard  who  died  in  1902,  leav- 
ing seven  children.  Adam  is  the  subject  of  this  review. 

Adam  Haag  acquired  his  education  partly  in  Germany  and  partly  in  the  public 
schools  of  Washington  county,  whither  he  moved  with  his  parents  when  he  was 
still  a child.  At  the  age  of  fourteen  he  laid  aside  his  books  and  afterwards  assisted 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  until  he  was  twenty-one.  He  then  pur- 
chased one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  36,  township  29,  range  6 
west,  and  upon  this  property  has  resided  continuously  since  that  time.  When 
it  came  into  his  possession  the  land  was  wild  and  unimproved,  but  with  charac- 
teristic energy  he  set  himself  to  the  work  of  developing  it,  clearing  it  of  a heavy 
growth  of  timber  and  building  upon  it  a small  log  cabin.  In  this  dwelling  all  of 
his  children  were  born  with  the  exception  of  his  youngest  daughter,  Ernestina, 


144 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


whose  birth  occurred  in  the  fine  modern  home  erected  in  1891.  Mr.  Haag  worked 
steadily  and  persistently  in  the  development  of  his  farm,  carrying  forward  the 
work  of  improvement  along  progressive  and  practical  lines,  and  the  years  brought 
him  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success.  Eventually  he  laid  aside  the  cares  of 
active  life  and  since  that  time  has  lived  in  retirement,  enjoying  the  fruits  of  his 
industry  and  enterprise  in  the  past. 

In  Sigel  township,  March  1,  1870,  Mr.  Haag  married  Miss  Mary  Rosenthal, 
a daughter  of  Gottlieb  and  Constantina  (Gauzel)  Rosenthal,  the  former  a pioneer 
blacksmith  of  Chippewa  county.  Gottlieb  Rosenthal  was  twice  married  and  had 
four  children  by  his  first  wife,  who  died  in  1857.  Fifteen  children  were  born  to 
his  second  union.  He  died  in  1889  at  the  age  of  seventy-four.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Haag  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children : George,  who  has  passed  away ; 
Gottlieb,  who  married  Miss  Ida  Speath  and  who  resides  in  Boyd ; Henry,  also 
deceased;  John;  Margaret,  who  has  passed  away;  and  Jacob,  Mary,  Philip,  Chris- 
tian, Frederick  and  Ernestina. 

Mr.  Haag  is  a devout  member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  has  witnessed  a great  deal  of  the  develop- 
ment of  this  section  of  the  state  and  may  well  be  proud  of  the  part  which  he 
has  taken  in  promoting  its  advancement,  for  he  brought  an  unimproved  tract 
of  timber  land  to  a high  state  of  cultivation,  making  it  one  of  the  finest  farms 
in  the  county.  He  is  now  enjoying  the  fruits  of  his  former  toil,  resting  in  the 
consciousness  of  a life  well  lived  and  of  worthy  work  well  done. 


HERMAN  F.  KLEMIvE. 

Herman  F.  Klemke  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  since  1882  and 
during  the  greater  part  of  the  intervening  period  has  been  closely  identified  with 
agricultural  interests  of  Lafayette  township.  He  owns  today  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  on  section  27  and  in  its  cultivation  follows  the  most  practical  and  pro- 
gressive methods,  resulting  in  the  attainment  of  a gratifying  success.  Lie  was 
born  in  Landsberg,  Brandenburg,  Prussia,  September  2,  1856,  and  is  a son  of 
August  and  Anna  (Lubich)  Klemke,  natives  of  that  province.  The  father  has 
passed  away  and  is  buried  in  Kernein,  Brandenburg,  Prussia,  and  his  wife  sur- 
vives him,  making  her  home  with  her  son  August  in  her  native  country. 

Herman  F.  Klemke  acquired  his  education  in  Germany  and  laid  aside  his 
books  at  the  age  of  fifteen.  He  afterwards  worked  at  anything  which  would 
bring  him  an  income  until  1882,  when  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  America,  settling 
first  in  Chippewa  Falls.  There  he  secured  a position  in  the  planing  mill  operated 
by  the  Chippewa  Lumber  and  Boom  Company  and  he  remained  with  this  concern 
for  twelve  years  thereafter,  spending  the  latter  portion  of  this  time  in  their  saw- 
mill. During  this  period  he  acquired  some  property,  which  he  traded  for  a farm 
on  section  27,  Lafayette  township,  and  upon  this  he  has  since  resided,  giving  his 
attention  to  mixed  farming  and  dairying.  Throughout  the  years  he  has  steadily 
carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development,  clearing  every  foot  of 
his  property  and  erecting  a fine  residence  and  other  substantial  buildings.  He  has 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


145 


met  with  gratifying  success  in  his  farming  operations  and  has  won  a prominent 
place  among  Chippewa  county’s  progressive  and  able  agriculturists. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  26th  of  August,  1882,  Mr.  Klemke  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Augusta  Ross,  a native  of  Germany,  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  seven  children : Mary,  the  wife  of  Fred  Ellis,  of  Minneapolis,  Min- 
nesota; Emma,  who  married  Gus  Klages,  a farmer  in  the  same  state;  Bertha, 
who  became  the  wife  of  George  Warner,  a carpenter  in  Pleasantdale,  New  Jersey; 
William,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  George,  attending  school;  Fred,  who  died  at 
the  age  of  eight;  and  Frieda,  who  passed  away  when  she  was  six  years  of  age. 
The  two  last  named  children  are  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 

Mr.  Klemke  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  one  of  Chippewa  county’s  enterprising 
men  and  has  contributed  much  in  thirty-one  years  to  the  general  welfare  of  the 
community,  being  numbered  today  among  its  most  representative  and  stubstantial 
citizens.  In  the  fall  of  1912  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Klemke  visited  his  old  home  in  Prussia, 
remaining  abroad  for  four  months.  He  met  many  old  friends,  schoolmates  and 
relatives  and  thoroughly  enjoyed  his  visit.  Being  a progressive,  up-to-date 
American  farmer,  he  expected  to  tell  them  “a  thing  or  two,’’  but  found  that  in 
many  instances  they  were  even  farther  advanced  than  the  American  farmers  and 
friends  that  were  poor  during  his  boyhood  were  now  rich. 


JOSEPH  H.  KELLY. 


Joseph  H.  Kelly,  one  of  the  most  extensive  landowners  and  prominent  agri- 
culturists of  Chippewa  county,  residing  on  section  31,  Eagle  Point  township,  is 
the  owner  of  one  thousand  acres  of  valuable  land.  He  is  engaged  in  mixed  farm- 
ing and  dairying  and  also  owns  and  conducts  an  elevator  at  Eagle  Point.  It  was 
in  the  year  of  1881  that  he  came  to  this  county  from  Canada,  in  which  country 
his  birth  occurred  February  4,  1863,  his  parents  being  Thomas  and  Eliza  (Murray) 
Kelly.  The  mother,  who  passed  away  in  1868,  was  buried  in  Canada,  but  the 
father  still  survives  and  now  makes  his  home  in  Chippewa  Falls. 

Joseph  Ii.  Kelly  attended  school  in  his  native  country  until  fourteen  years 
of  age  and  after  putting  aside  his  text-books  began  working  in  the  woods,  being 
thus  employed  for  about  twenty-six  years.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he 
turned  his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits  and  has  since  followed  farm- 
ing on  section  31,  Eagle  Point  township,  Chippewa  county,  owning  one  thousand 
acres  of  rich  and  productive  land.  He  is  engaged  in  mixed  farming  and  dairying’ 
and  keeps  about  thirty-two  head  of  horses,  two  hundred  head  of  cattle  and  fifty 
hogs.  Mr.  Kelly  erected  the  residence  and  other  buildings  which  adorn  his 
property  and  is  widely  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  prosperous  and  progressive 
citizens  of  the  community.  He  owns  an  elevator  at  Eagle  Point  and  in  its  con- 
duct has  also  met  with  success. 

In  1893,  at  Eagle  Point,  Mr.  Kelly  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Nettie 
Bartlett,  a sister  of  H.  V.  Bartlett.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  three  children, 
namely:  Murray  T.,  Joyce  and  June,  all  of  whom  are  now  assisting  their  father. 


146 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  his  political  views  Mr.  Kelly  is  independent,  supporting  men  and  measures 
rather  than  party.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in  the 
Methodist  church.  He  is  widely  known  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  has  resided 
for  almost  a third  of  a century  and  where  his  genuine  personal  worth,  high 
integrity  and  straightforward  principles  have  gained  for  him  the  good-will,  trust 
and  respect  of  all  with  whom  he  has  been  associated. 


* 


JOHN  A.  HILP. 

John  A.  Hilp,  who  during  the  thirty-two  years  of  his  residence  on  his  farm 
on  section  27,  Lafayette  township,  has  by  hard  work  and  intelligent  management 
made  that  one  of  the  finest  and  best  improved  properties  in  Chippewa  county, 
was  born  in  Sulzfeldt,  Baden,  near  Bingen,  Germany,  March  26,  1856.  He  is  a 
son  of  Andreas  and  Regina  Hilp,  also  natives  of  that  community,  where  their 
deaths  occurred. 

John  A.  Hilp  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany  and 
laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  then  assisted  his  father  with 
the  work  of  the  farm  until  1881,  in  which  year  he  emigrated  to  America.  Settling 
in  Chippewa  county,  he  worked  for  one  year  at  farm  labor  and  then  purchased 
forty  acres  of  land  on  section  27,  Lafayette  township.  This  tract  was  covered 
with  timber  and  stumps,  which  he  was  obliged  to  clear  before  the  work  of  culti- 
vation could  be  begun.  However,  he  applied  himself  to  this  task  with  characteris- 
tic energy,  pursuing  the  most  practical  methods  and  finally  developing  a valuable 
and  productive  property.  From  time  to  time  he  added  to  his  holdings,  accumulat- 
ing four  hundred  acres  of  excellent  land,  which  he  improved  with  a comfortable 
residence  and  substantial  farm  buildings.  Half  of  his  holdings  he  has  of  late  years 
divided  among  his  children,  retaining  two  hundred  acres  in  Lafayette  township, 
where  he  engages  in  mixed  farming  and  dairying. 

In  Germany,  on  the  22d  of  April,  1880,  Mr.  Hilp  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Christine  Friedrich,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  six  children : Will- 
iam ; John,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  Albert,  a farmer  in  Chippewa  county; 
Henry,  also  aiding  in  the  operation  of  the  homestead;  Alice,  at  home;  and  Emma, 
who  married  Oscar  Buttenhoff,  who  is  assisting  the  subject  of  this  review. 

Mr.  Hilp  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  his  political  alle- 
giance is  given  to  the  republican  party.  He  stands  high  in  business  and  social 
circles  and  is  well  known  in  Lafayette  and  adjoining  townships. 


BRYAN  GORMLEY. 

Among  the  energetic,  successful  and  progressive  farmers  of  Lafayette  town- 
ship is  Bryan  Gormley,  the  owner  of  a fine  property  of  one  hundred  and  twenty- 
acres  on  section  33,  where  he  has  resided  for  twelve  years.  He  has  lived  in 
Chippewa  county  since  1879  but  was  born  in  Turin,  Lewis  county,  New  York, 
October  22,  1844,  his  parents  being  Bernard  and  Alice  (Earley)  Gormley.  The 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


147 


father  was  born  in  New  York  state  and  there  engaged  in  farming  for  a number 
of  years,  dying  in  1871.  His  wife  survived  him  four  years  and  they  are  buried 
side  by  side  in  the  Constableville  cemetery  in  New  York.  The  Gormley  family 
is  of  English  origin  and  its  representatives  have  been  in  the  United  States  for 
several  generations. 

Bryan  Gormley  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Constableville, 
but  his  opportunities  along  this  line  were  limited,  for  he  laid  aside  his  books  at 
the  early  age  of  fourteen  years.  He  has,  however,  made  up  for  the  deficiencies 
of  his  early  training  by  constant  reading  and  study  in  mature  years.  After  leav- 
ing school  he  assisted  his  father  on  the  farm  until  he  was  twenty  years  of  age 
and  then  purchased  the  homestead,  which  he  cultivated  and  improved  for  a num- 
ber of  years  thereafter.  In  1879  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  here  worked 
for  fourteen  years  at  carpentering  and  contracting,  meeting  with  that  success 
which  is  the  natural  result  of  earnest,  well  directed  and  persistent  labor.  He  sub- 
sequently acquired  his  present  farm,  the  cultivation  of  which  takes  up  his  sole 
attention. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  15th  of  February,  1898,  Mr.  Gormley  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Eva  Wilcox,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  Wilcox 
of  this  county,  the  former  of  whom  died  in  1889.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gormley  have 
become  parents  of  a daughter,  Eva  E.  Mr.  Gormley  is  a member  of  the  Roman 
Catholic  church.  He  is  independent  in  his  political  views  and  interested  in  the 
growth  and  welfare  of  the  county,  although  his  attention  has  been  largely  con- 
centrated upon  his  business  affairs,  in  which  he  has  met  with  substantial  and 
gratifying  success. 


GEORGE  HARTMANN,  Sr. 

George  Hartmann,  Sr.,  one  of  the  respected  citizens  and  prominent  agricultur- 
ists of  Tilden  township,  where  he  owns  a valuable  farm  of  three  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  on  section  2,  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  almost  six 
decades.  It  was  in  January,  1855,  that  he  came  to  this  county.  He  was  born  in 
Bavaria,  Germany,  on  the  31st  of  March,  1837,  his  parents  being  Jacob  and 
Katherine  (Russell)  Hartmann,  who  lie  buried  in  Bavaria,  having  passed  away 
when  our  subject  was  but  four  years  old.  He  attended  school  in  Bavaria  until 
fourteen  years  of  age  and  remained  in  that  -country  two  years  longer,  being  sixteen 
at  the  time  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  new  world  on  a sailing  vessel  which 
was  forty-three  days  making  the  voyage.  He  landed  in  New  York  in  July,  1853, 
and  from  there  went  to  Chicago,  and  later  to  Iowa,  coming  to  this  county  in 
January,  1S55,  as  previously  stated. 

During  the  first  fifteen  years  of  his  residence  in  this  state  Mr.  Hartmann 
engaged  in  logging  and  for  three  years  of  that  time  had  his  own  logging  camp. 
He  subsequently  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  homesteading  forty  acres  and 
purchasing  various  tracts  from  time  to  time  until  he  now  owns  a fine  farm  of 
three  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Tilden  township  which  has  remained  in  his 
possession  continuously  since.  He  is  successfully  engaged  in  mixed  farming, 
keeping  about  eleven  horses,  forty  head  of  cattle  and  thirty  hogs.  The  residence 


148 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  other  buildings  on  the  place  which  were  erected  by  him  enhance  the  value 
and  attractiveness  of  the  property. 

In  1859,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Hartmann  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Catherine  Rander,  a daughter  of  Francis  and  Mary  Rada,  both  of  whom  passed 
away  and  were  buried  in  Bohemia.  Eleven  children  were  born  of  this  union,  as 
follows:  Joseph,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Howard  township;  Frank,  who 
follows  farming  in  Tilden  township;  George,  Jr.,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  on 
another  page  of  this  work;  Phillip,  a machinist  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Paul,  who 
makes  his  home  in  Auburn  township;  Godfrey,  who  assists  his  father  in  the 
operation  of  the  home  farm  ; David,  a truck  farmer  of  Washington,  D.  C. ; Edward, 
abutter  maker  of  Bloomer;  John,  who  is  engaged  in  business  as  a wagonmaker  of 
Bloomer;  Mary,  the  wife  of  Joseph  Gerner  of  Chippewa  Falls;  and  Louise,  who 
died  in  1882  and  was  buried  in  the  Tilden  cemetery.  The  wife  and  mother  was 
called  to  her  final  rest  in  1891  and  her  remains  were  interred  at  Tilden.  In  1893, 
at  Tilden,  Mr.  Hartmann  was  again  married,  his  second  union  being  with  Mrs. 
Mary  Swartz,  who  passed  away  in  1905. 

Mr.  Hartmann  is  a democrat  in  his  political  views  and  has  ably  served  his 
fellow  townsmen  in  various  positions  of  public  trust,  having  acted  in  the  capacity 
of  assessor,  township  treasurer,  chairman  of  the  township  board  and  in  several 
other  offices.  He  is  a devout  communicant  of  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  church  of  Tilden 
and  for  about  twenty-five  years  has  served  as  treasurer  thereof.  Coming  to  the 
new  world  as  a youth  of  sixteen  years,  he  eagerly  availed  himself  of  the  oppor- 
tunities here  afforded  and  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward  to  a position 
among  the  substantial  'and  most  respected  citizens  of  his  community. 


JACOB  F.  KAPPUS. 

Jacob  F.  Kappus,  since  1903  connected  with  agricultural  interests  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  is  the  owner  of  an  eighty-acre  tract  of  highly  improved  land  on 
section  20,  Lafayette  township,  and  through  his  well  directed  labors  and  capable 
management  has  attained  a gratifying  degree  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in 
Wabasha,  Wabasha  county,  Minnesota,  June  9,  1866,  and  is  a son  of  Jacob  F. 
and  Fredericka  (Wood)  Kappus,  both  of  German  origin.  The  father  was  for 
many  years  a grain  buyer  and  farmer  and  followed  those  occupations  until  the 
time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1897,  when  he  was  seventy  years  of  age. 
His  wife  passed  away  in  1894  and  both  were  buried  in  the  Maxwell  cemetery, 
Buffalo  county,  Wisconsin. 

Jacob  F.  Kappus  began  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Reed’s  Landing, 
Wabasha  county,  Minnesota,  and  completed  it  in  Buffalo  county,  Wisconsin.  At 
the  age  of  sixteen  he  laid  aside  his  books  and  from  that  time  until  1897  worked 
as  a log  driver  on  the  river.  He  then  purchased  land  and  engaged  in  farming. 
This  he  afterward  sold  in  order  to  purchase  a fruit  farm  in  Washington  county. 
In  1903  he  disposed  of  this  property  and  removed  to  Chippewa  county,  where 
he  bought  eighty  acres  on  section  20,  Lafayette  township.  Upon  this  farm  he 
now  resides  and  he  gives  a great  deal  of  time  to  its  improvement,  having  erected 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


149 


a large  barn  and  other  substantial  buildings.  He  has  also  fenced  his  fields  and 
raises  the  grains  which  in  his  judgment  are  best  adapted  to  the  soil  and  climate. 

At  Durand,  Pepin  county,  this  state,  Mr.  Kappus  was  married  on  the  14th 
of  September,  1889,  to  Miss  Alice  Hyde,  a daughter  of  Pliney  and  Mary  (Gard- 
ner) Hyde.  Her  father,  who  was  a millwright,  carpenter  and  farmer,  died  July 
12,  1912,  at  the  age  of  eighty-six,  and  was  buried  in  Maxwell  cemetery,  Buffalo 
county.  Her  mother  passed  away  in  1874.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kappus  have  four  chil- 
dren: Arthur  and  Violet,  who  are  attending  school;  Jacob,  Jr.,  and  Mamie,  aged 
two  years. 

Mr.  Kappus  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party,  serving  at  present  as  director  of  the 
school  board.  He  is  not  only  industrious  and  enterprising  but  is  also  a man 
of  high  moral  character  and  is  greatly  esteemed  throughout  the  township  both 
as  a farmer  and  business  man. 


DANIEL  H.  CAMERON. 

Daniel  H.  Cameron  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  since  1866  and  has  there- 
fore witnessed  practically  its  entire  development.  Since  1872  he  has  been  closely 
connected  with  agricultural  interests  as  the  owner  of  a fine  farm  of  two  hundred 
and  forty  acres  on  section  33,  Lafayette  township,  and  has  been  an  individual 
factor  in  promoting  growth  and  progress.  He  was  born  in  Quebec  province,  on 
the  Beaudet  river,  November  19,  1842,  and  is  a son  of  Hugh  and  Flora  (Mc- 
Donnell) Cameron,  the  former  also  a native  of  Quebec.  He  was  a son  of  Donald 
Cameron,  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  that  province,  and  the  family  has  been  well 
known  near  the  river  Beaudet  for  many  years.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hugh  Cameron 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  that  vicinity. 

Daniel  H.  Cameron  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
district,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years.  He  afterward  spent 
a few  years  assisting  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm,  and  then  began  working 
in  the  lumber  woods  and  on  the  river,  continuing  thus  for  five  years.  At  the  end  of 
that  time  he  left  Canada  and  came  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  resumed  farm- 
ing operations  and  also  maintained  his  connection  with  lumbering  until  1881.  In 
1872  he  bought  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  land  on  section  33,  Lafayette 
township,  of  which  at  that  time  only  four  or  five  acres  were  cleared,  but  with 
characteristic  energy  Mr.  Cameron  set  himself  to  the  task  of  improving  and  devel- 
oping his  farm  which  as  a result  of  his  untiring  labor  soon  became  productive 
and  valuable.  Upon  it  he  has  erected  a fine  residence,  good  barns  and  a shed,  all 
substantial  and  in  good  repair,  his  farm  presenting  one  of  the  attractive  features 
of  the  landscape  in  this  locality. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  June  7,  1874,  Mr.  Cameron  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Levina  Sloan,  a daughter  of  Robert  and  Sarah  (Daugherty)  Sloan.  The 
former  was  the  first  settler  on  5 Mile  creek,  locating  in  that  vicinity  when  the 
Indians  were  still  numerous  and  when  pioneer  conditions  prevailed  everywhere. 
He  and  his  wife  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  Mr. 


150 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  Mrs.  Cameron  have  three  children:  Hugh,  who  is  assisting  his  father;’ 
Sarah,  at  home ; and  Don,  also  aiding  in  the  development  of  his  father's  farm. 

Mr.  Cameron  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  a democrat  in 
his  political  beliefs.  He  takes  an  active  part  in  public  affairs  and  has  held  various 
positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  as  supervisor  for  four  or  five  years 
and  as  school  director  since  the  organization  of  the  board.  He  has  also  been  clerk 
and  treasurer  of  the  school  board  and  the  cause  of  education  finds  in  him  an  able 
supporter.  His  worth  is  widely  acknowledged,  his  enterprise  having  gained  him 
distinction  in  agricultural  circles  and  his  excellent  qualities  of  mind  and  character 
having  won  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


GUSTAVE  ALBERT. 

Gustave  Albert,  who  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  about  a 
quarter  of  a century,  is  now  successfully  engaged  in  dairy  farming  in  Holcombe 
township,  owning  a tract  of  land  comprising  sixty  acres  on  section  3,  township  31, 
range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Saxony,  Germany,  on  the  18th  of  December,  1872, 
his  parents  being  Carl  and  Pauline  (Fritche)  Albert.  The  father  still  survives 
and  makes  his  home  with  our  subject,  but  the  mother  passed  away  in  this  county 
four  years  ago. 

Gustave  Albert  came  to  Chippewa  county  as  a youth  of  seventeen  and 
secured  employment  in  a sawmill  and  lumber  camp  at  Estella.  He  was  largely 
engaged  in  lumbering  for  a number  of  years  or  until  1909,  when  he  began  to 
develop  the  farm  which  is  now  his  home,  having  purchased  a slightly  improved 
tract  of  sixty  acres  in  Holcombe  township  in  1892.  Thirty  acres  thereof  are 
now  cleared  and  under  cultivation,  and  Mr.  Albert  devotes  his  attention  to  dairy 
farming  with  excellent  results.  He  has  erected  a substantial  frame  dwelling  and 
also  a good  barn  on  the  property  and  is  widely  recognized  as  an  industrious, 
honest  and  upright  citizen  whose  success  is  well  merited. 

In  1909  Mr.  Albert  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Fannie  Nagler,  a native 
of  Germany,  by  whom  he  has  two  children,  Charlotte  and  Mary.  His  religious 
faith  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church,  while  in  politics  he  is  independent,  support- 
ing men  and  measures  rather  than  party.  His  good  qualities,  and  they  are  many, 
have  strongly  endeared  him  to  those  with  whom  he  has  been  associated  and  wher- 
ever he  is  known  he  is  popular  with  a large  circle  of  friends. 


LOUIS  MONDOUX. 

For  thirty-three  years  Louis  Mondoux  has  been  closely  connected  with  agri- 
cultural interests  of  Chippewa  county  and  during  that  time  has  made  many  sub- 
stantial contributions  to  general  progress,  owning  today  a valuable  and  productive 
property.  His  land  lies  on  section  28,  Lafayette  township,  and  comprises  one 
hundred  acres,  all  of  which  is  in  a high  state  of  cultivation  as  a result  of  his  in- 
telligent care  and  management. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


151 


Mr.  Mondoux  was  born  in  Serrell,  Quebec,  January  8,  1857,  and  is  a son  of 
Narcis  and  Elie  (Levee)  Mondoux,  of  French  extraction.  The  father  engaged 
in  agricultural  pursuits  all  during  his  active  life,  dying  in  1893.  He  is  buried  in 
the  Serrell  cemetery,  and  his  wife,  who  survived  him  until  1908,  was  laid  to  rest 
in  St.  Zephirin  cemetery,  Quebec. 

Louis  Mondoux  acquired  his  education  in  his  native  province  and  laid  aside 
his  books  at  the  age  of  thirteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  with  the  work 
of  the  farm  for  five  years  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  came  to  Chippewa  county, 
where  he  has  since  resided.  After  working  in  the  lumber  woods  for  five  years  he 
turned  his  attention  to  farming,  purchasing  eighty  acres  of  wild  timber  and  brush 
land,  which  he  cleared  and  brought  to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  This  he  after- 
ward traded  for  forty  acres  on  section  28,  Lafayette  township,  and  to  this  added 
another  forty  acres,  which  he  had  previously  acquired,  and  another  tract  of 
twenty  acres,  his  holdings  aggregating  one  hundred  acres  of  valuable  land.  When 
this  came  into  his  possession  it  was  only  partially  cultivated,  but  he  has  steadily 
developed  it  since  that  time  until  it  is  today  a productive  and  valuable  property. 
It  is  provided  with  a comfortable  residence  and  substantial  barns  and  outbuild- 
ings, and  modern  machinery  has  been  installed  to  facilitate  the  work  of  the  fields. 
Mr.  Mondoux  engages  in  mixed  farming,  finding  this  method  the  most  practical, 
and  his  well  directed  efforts  have  been  rewarded  by  a substantial  degree  of 
success. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  22d  of  June,  188(4,  Mr.  Mondoux  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Mary  O’Donnell,  a daughter  of  Patrick  and  Margaret  (Wren) 
O’Donnell.  Her  parents  were  both  natives  of  Ireland,  the  father  born  in  Cork  and 
the  mother  in  Kerry.  Mr.  O’Donnell  engaged  in  farming  in  Chippewa  county  for 
a number  of  years.  He  died  in  1885  and  was  survived  by  his  wife  until  1898. 
Both  are  buried  in  Mount  Calvary  cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Mondoux  have  become  the  parents  of  eleven  children : Louise  M.,  who  married 
Charles  Bishop,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Mamie  G.,  Sarah  A.,  and  Dolores,  all  of  whom 
reside  in  Duluth,  Minnesota ; Harold,  who  is  assisting  his  father ; Alice,  a student 
in  the  high  school ; Milton,  Cecilia  and  Loretta,  who  are  attending  district  school ; 
Joseph,  who  died  at  the  age  of  four  and  is  buried  in  Mount  Calvary  cemetery 
of  Chippewa  Falls ; and  Leo,  who  passed  away  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Mondoux  is  a member  of  the  Holy  Ghost  Roman  Catholic  church  and 
gives  a general  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party,  although  at  times  he  votes  inde- 
pendently. He  is  a man  of  high  social  and  business  standing  and  is  recognized 
as  one  of  the  most  valued  and  progressive  citizens  of  the  community. 


A.  LAURSEN. 

A.  Laursen,  a well  known  and  enterprising  agriculturist  of  Holcombe  town- 
ship, is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  eighty  acres  on  section  20, 
township  31,  range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Denmark  on  the  5th  of  January, 
1849,  his  parents  being  L.  and  Kerstine  Laursen,  both  of  whom  passed  away 
in  Denmark.  The  father  in  his  earlier  life  followed  agricultural  pursuits  but 
later,  moving  from  his  original  location,  settled  in  Skovlyst,  Smadkaeclund, 


152 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Denmark,  where  he  successfully  conducted  a large  summer  garden  and  restau- 
rant during  the  season  from  April  ist  to  October  ist.  Mr.  Laursen  of  this 
review  still  treasures  a beautiful  and  large  picture  of  his  father’s  home. 

A.  Laursen  spent  the  first  twenty-three  years  of  his  life  in  the  old  world  and 
in  1873  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States.  For  two  and  one-half  years 
he  resided  in  P>oston,  Massachusetts,  being  a sailor,  and  on  the  expiration  of 
that  period  made  his  way  to  Nebraska,  where  he  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  in  Stanton  county.  Because  of  the  grasshopper  scourge  he  sold 
the  place,  however,  and  returned  to  Denmark.  In  1899  once  more  came 
to  America  and  took  up  his  abode  in  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  working  in 
the  woods  during  the  first  winter.  Subsequently  he  purchased  eighty  acres  of 
unimproved  land  in  Holcombe  township  and  has  resided  on  that  tract  contin- 
uously since.  When  it  came  into  his  possession  five  acres  of  the 
land  were  partly  cleared  and  on  it  stood  a little  log  house,  twelve  by  twelve 
feet,  with  a bark  roof.  At  the  time  of  the  assessor's  first  visit,  Mr.  Laursen 
had  no  table  nor  box  to  offer  him  on  which  to  write.  He  was  practically  penni- 
less when  he  landed  on  American  shores  and  earnestly  began  the  struggle  for 
a livelihood.  As  the  years  have  passed,  success  has  attended  his  well  directed 
efforts  and  he  now  has  forty  acres  of  his  land  under  cultivation,  a substantial 
and  commodious  frame  residence  and  good  log  barns. 

In  Boston,  Massachusetts,  on  August  27,  1873,  Mr.  Laursen  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Berget  K^rstine  Davison,  a native  of  Denmark,  by  whom 
he  has  three  children,  as  follows:  Adolphine,  the  wife  of  Christ  Johnson,  of 

Chippewa  county ; Lawrence  A.,  who  is  a resident  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin ; 
and  Rufus  A.,  at  home. 

Mr.  Laursen  exercises  his  right  of  franchise  in  support  of  the  men  and 
measures  of  the  republican  party  and  in  religious  faith  is  a Lutheran.  The 
sterling  traits  of  his  character  are  well  known  to  his  fellow  townsmen,  the 
great  majority  of  whom  number  him  as  a friend.  In  the  course  of  his  business 
career  he  has  encountered  difficulties  and  obstacles  that  would  have  disheartened 
many  a man  of  less  resolute  spirit,  and  has  labored  undauntedly  and  untiringly 
until  he  now  occupies  a place  among  the  substantial  and  esteemed  citizens  of 
his  community. 


J.  HOWARD  BROWNE. 

J.  Howard  Browne,  junior  member  of  the  firm  of  Murphy  & Browne,  lawyers, 
at  No.  100  North  Bridge  street,  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  September,  1906, 
from  Vernon  county,  Wisconsin,  where  he  was  born  on  August  n,  1S84.  He  is 
a son  of  Fenton  J.  and  Belle  L.  (Latshaw)  Browne,  residents  of  Vernon  county. 

J.  Howard  Browne  received  his  education  at  Mount  Gilead  high  school  of 
Mount  Gilead,  Ohio,  which  he  left  at  the  age  of  sixteen  years  in  order  to  take  up 
the  profession  of  teaching.  He  was  so  occupied  for  two  years,  at  the  end  of  which 
time  he  entered  the  State  Normal  School  at  Stevens  Point,  Wisconsin,  graduating 
in  1906.  He  then  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  taught  for  two  years,  going 
from  here  to  Wisconsin  University,  where  he  studied  in  the  law  department  for 


J.  HOWARD  BROWNE 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


155 


about  two  and  a half  years,  graduating  in  1910,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  came 
back  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  entered  into  a partnership  with  Mr.  Murphy  which 
still  continues. 

Mr.  Browne  is  a democrat  in  his  political  views  and  gives  his  stanch  support 
to  the  candidates  and  measures  of  that  party.  He  is  a member  of  the  Catholic 
church  and  fraternally  connected  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus,  the  Catholic 
Order  of  Foresters  and  the  Ancient  Order  of  Hibernians.  He  has  achieved  a wide 
reputation  as  an  orator  and  in  that  connection  is  a member  of  the  state  lecture 
bureau  for  the  Knights  of  Columbus.  The  talents  of  both  Messrs.  Murphy  and 
Browne  have  found  ready  recognition  and  in  the  three  years  in  which  they  have 
practiced  in  Chippewa  Falls  they  have  built  up  a reputation  which  connects  them 
with  rpuch  important  legal  business  of  the  county. 


M.  A.  HENRIIvSEN. 

M.  A.  Henriksen,  who  has  resided  in  Chippewra  county  for  more  than  three 
decades,  and  who  enjoys  an  enviable  reputation  as  one  of  the  best  agriculturists 
in  the  county,  devotes  his  attention  to  dairy  farming  in  Holcombe  township  and 
is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land  on  section  21, 
township  31,  range  6. 

He  was  born  in  Laurvik,  Norway,  on  the  21st  of  November,  1867,  a son  of 
Knut  Henriksen,  likewise  a native  of  that  country,  who  brought  his  family  to 
the  United  States  in  1881.  The  latter  first  worked  for  one  year  in  Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin,  and  then  came  to  Chippewa  county,  purchasing  two  hundred  and 
eighty  acres  of  wild  land  which  was  covered  with  standing  hardwood  timber. 
There  was  not  a highway  for  miles,  the  district  being  still  but  sparsely  settled  and 
largely  undeveloped.  Knut  Henriksen,  who  was  a blacksmith  by  trade,  devoted 
his  attention  to  that  occupation  and  to  general  agricultural  pursuits  throughout 
his  active  business  career.  He  built  a house  of  six-inch  hewed,  planed  and 
matched  logs — the  kind  of  dwelling  common  in  his  native  land.  On  his  farm 
in  Holcombe  township  he  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life,  passing  away  in  1903 
and  being  deeply  and  sincerely  mourned  as  one  of  the  substantial  and  respected 
pioneer  settlers  whose  labors  had  contributed  to  the  development  and  growth  of 
the  community  in  no  small  measure.  In  religious  belief  he  was  a Lutheran. 
It  was  in  Norway  that  he  wedded  Miss  Olea  Frederickson,  who  is  also  deceased. 
Their  children  were  ten  in  number,  as  follows : Henry,  who  is  a resident  of 
South  Dakota ; Anna,  who  is  the  widow  of  C.  G.  Olson  and  makes  her  home 
in  Montana;  M.  A.,  of  this  review;  Fannie,  the  wife  of  Elijah  Coats,  of  Philip, 
Wisconsin;  Fritz,  who  was  married  and  who  died  on  his  way  to  Australia,  being 
buried  in  the  Sandwich  Islands;  Anton,  who  was  drowned  in  the  Chippewa  river 
when  sixteen  years  of  age ; C.  A.,  who  is  deceased  and  of  whom  a sketch  appears 
on  another  page  of  this  work;  and  three  who  died  in  infancy. 

M.  A.  Henriksen,  who  was  a youth  of  fourteen  when  he  accompanied  his 
parents  on  their  emigration  to  the  new  world,  remained  with  them  until  they 
passed  away.  He  came  into  possession  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  the 
old  homestead  in  Holcombe  township,  this  county,  and  resides  in  the  log  house 

Vol.  11— 9 


156 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


which  was  built  by  his  father  and  which  is  still  a handsome  and  substantial 
dwelling.  The  other  buildings  are  also  well  constructed  and  the  place,  in  its 
neat  and  thrifty  appearance,  indicates  the  supervision  of  a practical  and  pro- 
gressive owner.  Mr.  Henriksen  is  engaged  in  dairy  farming  and  has  won  a 
gratifying  and  well  merited  measure  of  prosperity  in  that  connection. 

On  the  2d  of  April,  1904,  Mr.  Henriksen  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Hattie  Albert,  her  father  being  Carl  Albert,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  on 
another  page  of  this  volume.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  one  child,  Marie. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Henriksen  is  a republican,  loyally  supporting  the 
men  and  measures  of  that  party  at  the  polls.  That  his  life  has  ever  been  upright 
and  honorable  is  indicated  by  the  fact  that  the  associates  of  his  youth  and  early 
manhood  are  still  numbered  among  his  stanchest  friends  and  admirers,  and  he 
well  merits  the  high  regard  in  which  he  is  uniformly  held. 


HENRY  MORRIS. 

Henry  Morris  is  a progressive  and  public-spirited  man  of  Lafayette  town- 
ship, who  since  1866  has  been  closely  associated  with  the  progress  and  develop- 
ment of  this  part  of  Wisconsin.  As  the  years  have  gone  by,  through  his  agri- 
cultural interests  and  his  hearty  cooperation  in  every  progressive  movement, 
he  has  contributed  to  the  general  advancement  and  at  all  times  has  manifested 
a deep  interest  in  whatever  is  calculated  to  promote  the  general  welfare.  He 
is  now  living  on  section  30,  Lafayette  township,  where  a valuable  property  of 
eighty  acres  does  tribute  to  his  care  and  industry.  He  is  also  entitled  to  repre- 
sentation in  this  volume  as  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war. 

Mr.  Morris  was  born  in  Sussex  county,  England,  April  15,  1844,  and  is  a 
son  of  Stephen  and  Annie  Morris,  both  of  whom  passed  away  during  an  epi- 
demic of  cholera  in  1849  and  were  buried  in  Niagara  county,  New  York.  He 
came  to  America  with  his  parents  when  he  was  still  a child  and  settled  with 
them  in  Niagara  county,  where  he  acquired  his  education.  He  laid  aside  his 
books  at  the  age  of  fifteen  and  then  worked  at  farm  labor  in  New  York  state 
until  the  outbreak  of  the  Civil  war.  He  volunteered  for  service  in  the  Union 
army  as  a member  of  the  Twenty-third  New  York  Independent  Battery  and 
was  sent  to  the  front  as  private,  taking  part  in  many  of  the  most  important 
battles  of  the  war.  He  received  his  honorable  discharge  at  the  close  of  hostili- 
ties July  15,  1865,  at  Buffalo,  New  York,  and  following  this  moved  to  Wiscon- 
sin, where  he  has  since  made  his  home.  For  fifteen  seasons  he  worked  in  the 
lumber  woods  and  on  the  rivers  and  then  settled  on  a farm  in  Buffalo  county, 
where  he  remained  until  1892.  He  then  purchased  his  present  property  on 
section  30,  Lafayette  township,  finding  the  land  at  that  time  covered  with  a 
heavy  growth  of  timber.  This  he  cleared  and  with  characteristic  energy  has 
since  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development,  owning  today 
a productive  and  valuable  farm. 

In  Buffalo  county,  this  state,  August  15,  1881,  Mr.  Morris  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Ellen  Stoken,  a daughter  of  Timothy  and  Adelia  (Rouse) 
Stoken,  the  former  of  whom  engaged  in  carpentering  and  farming  for  a num- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


157 


ber  of  years.  He  was  also  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  Both  parents  have 
passed  away  and  are  buried  in  the  North  Brant  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Morris 
have  become  the  parents  of  one  daughter,  Daisy,  who  married  James  Moloney, 
a prominent  farmer  of  this  district. 

Mr.  Morris  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  con- 
nected fraternally  with  the  local  post  of  the  Grand  Army  of  the  Republic.  He 
is  a man  whose  excellent  moral  character,  industry  and  enterprise  have  given 
him  a high  standing  in  the  community,  of  which  he  is  acknowledged  to  be  a 
representative  and  valued  citizen. 


CHRIST  L.  GOETZ. 

Christ  L.  Goetz,  a worthy  native  son  and  representative  agriculturist  of 
Chippewa  county,  is  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  rich  and  pro- 
ductive land  on  section  14,  Sigel  township.  His  birth  occurred  in  this  county 
on  the  2 1 st  of  June,  1871,  his  parents  being  Henry  and  Caroline  (Grassle) 
Goetz.  The  father  passed  away  on  the  10th  of  December,  1909,  but  the  mother 
still  survives  and  resides  on  the  old  home  farm,  being  well  known  and  highly 
esteemed  throughout  the  community. 

In  the  acquirement  of  an  education  Christ  L.  Goetz  attended  school  in  this 
county  until  sixteen  years  of  age  and  after  putting  aside  his  text-books  assisted 
his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  place,  gaining  a thorough  knowledge  of 
agriculture  in  all  of  its  phases.  In  1908  he  started  out  as  an  agriculturist  on 
his  own  account  and  has  since  cultivated  a tract  of  land  comprising  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  on  section  14,  Sigel  township.  He  carries  on  mixed  farming  and 
keeps  about  nine  head  of  horses,  twenty  cattle  and  ten  hogs.  The  residence  and 
other  buildings  on  the  property  were  erected  by  him,  and  the  neat  and  thrifty 
appearance  of  the  place  bespeaks  the  supervision  of  a practical  and  progressive 
owner. 

On  the  6th  of  October,  1908,  in  Sigel  township,  Mr.  Goetz  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Martha  Grimm,  a daughter  of  Herman  and  Minnie  (Wohlbier) 
Grimm,  who  reside  in  that  township.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  three 
children,  Victor,  Anita  and  Lloyd. 

Mr.  Goetz  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  in  religious 
faith  is  a Lutheran.  He  enjoys  a wide  and  favorable  acquaintance  in  the  county 
where  his  entire  life  has  been  spent  and  has  long  been  numbered  among  its 
substantial  and  esteemed  citizens. 


MICHAEL  MEAGHER. 

Michael  Meagher,  who  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  over  a 
half  century,  has  devoted  his  attention  to  agricultural  pursuits  throughout  his 
entire  business  career  and  is  now  the  owner  of  an  excellent  farm  of  two  hundred 
and  fifty-four  acres  on  section  28,  Eagle  Point  township.  It  was  in  1859  that 


158 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


he  was  brought  to  this  county  from  Trempealeau  county,  Wisconsin,  where  his 
birth  occurred  on  the  4th  of  April,  1854.  His  parents,  Patrick  and  Mary  (Flynn) 
Meagher,  are  both  deceased  and  lie  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls. 

Michael  Meagher  attended  school  in  this  county  until  seventeen  years  of  age 
and  afterward  assisted  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  farm  until  the 
latter’s  death  in  the  spring  of  1892.  He  took  possession  of  the  property  at  that 
time  and  subsequently  purchased  a farm  of  two  hundred  and  fifty-four  acres  on 
section  28,  Eagle  Point  township,  on  which  he  has  remained  continuously  since. 
His  time  and  energies  are  devoted  to  mixed  farming  and  he  keeps  about  seven 
horses  and  fifty  cattle.  He  is  energetic  and  industrious  in  the  conduct  of  his 
agricultural  interests,  and  his  carefully  directed  labors  have  brought  to  him 
well  earned  success. 

In  1888,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Meagher  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss 
Mary  Manning,  a daughter  of  Thomas  and  Bridget  (Flynn)  Manning,  both  of 
whom  are  buried  at  Chippewa  Falls.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  three  chil- 
dren, namely : Lawrence,  George  and  Theresa,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Meagher  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democracy  and  has  ably  served 
as  chairman  of  the  town  board  for  about  two  years.  His  religious  belief  is  that 
of  the  Catholic  church,  attending  Notre  Dame  church  of  Chippewa  Falls,  and  he 
is  also  a member  of  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  Throughout  almost  his 
entire  life  he  has  made  his  home  in  Chippewa  county  and  for  a long  period  has 
been  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  substantial  and  progressive  citizens,  receiving 
from  all  who  are  associated  with  him  the  respect  due  to  one  whose  career  has 
ever  been  upright  and  honorable. 


PAUL  H.  FELIX. 

Paul  H.  Felix,  a progressive  and  practical  farmer  of  Lafayette  township, 
owning  and  operating  one  hundred  acres  of  fine  land  on  sections  21  and  28,  is 
a native  of  Chippewa  county,  born  January  29,  1873,  his  parents  being  Prest 
and  Kate  ( Pelocjuin)  Felix,  both  of  French  origin.  The  father  was  one  of  the 
first  settlers  in  Lafayette  township,  having  taken  up  a tract  of  heavy  timber 
land  in  pioneer  times.  This  he  cleared  and  by  hard  work  and  intelligent  manage- 
ment brought  it  to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  During  the  course  of  a long) 
active  and  honorable  life  he  won  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors  and 
friends  and  his  death,  which  occurred  in  April,  1910,  when  he  was  seventy-five 
years  of  age,  deprived  Chippewa  county  of  a representative  citizen  as  well  as  an 
honored  pioneer.  He  had  survived  his  wife  since  1908,  her  death  occurring 
when  she  was  fifty-nine  years  of  age.  Both  are  buried  in  Mount  Calvary  ceme- 
tery, Chippewa  Falls. 

Paul  H.  Felix  was  reared  upon  his  father’s  farm  and  from  his” early  childhood 
assisted  with  its  operation,  learning  in  this  way  the  best  agricultural  methods  and 
all  the  details  of  farm  operation.  At  the  age  of  fifteen  he  began  working  in  the 
lumber  woods  during  the  winters,  remaining  at  home  during  the  summers,  and 
he  continued  thus  until  1904,  when  he  purchased  his  present  farm.  He  now 
owns  one  hundred  acres  of  fine  land  on  sections  21  and  28,  Lafayette  township, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


159 


and  upon  this  engages  in  dairy  farming,  winning  that  success  which  always 
follows  earnest  labor  and  intelligent  management. 

Mr.  Felix  is  a member  of  the  Holy  Ghost  Roman  Catholic  church  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  is  independent  in  his  political  views,  voting  for  men  and  measures  with- 
out regard  to  party  lines.  Wherever  he  is  known  he  is  respected  for  his  unfalter- 
ing allegiance  to  the  principles  of  honorable  manhood  as  manifest  in  business  and 
social  relations  and  in  public-spirited  citizenship. 


LAWRENCE  VERHULST. 

Lawrence  Verhulst,  engaged  in  dairy  farming  in  Holcombe  township,  is  the 
owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  eighty  acres  on  section  3,  township  31,  range 
6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Holland  on  the  24th  of  July,  1861,  his  parents  being 
William  and  Jakoba  (Joosse)  Verhulst.  In  that  country  the  mother  died.  Later 
in  1882,  the  family  emigrated  to  the  United  States  and  located  in  Sheboygan 
county,  Wisconsin,  near  Oostburg.  The  father  is  still  living. 

Lawrence  Verhulst  spent  the  first  twenty-one  years  of  his  life  in  the  land  of 
his  nativity  and  then  accompanied  his  father  on  his  emigration  to  the  new  world. 
He  worked  as  a farm  hand  and  also  in  factories  of  Sheboygan  for  a number  of 
years  and  subsequently  cultivated  rented  land  in  northwestern  Wisconsin  for  a 
few  years.  In  3906  he  purchased  a slightly  improved  tract  of  eighty  acres  in 
Holcombe  township,  Chippewa  county,  the  property  being  located  in  section  3, 
township  31,  range  6.  He  has  since  resided  on  that  place  and  is  successfully  en- 
gaged in  dairy  farming.  Twenty  acres  of  the  tract  are  now  under  cultivation. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life,  Mr.  Verhulst  chose  Miss 
Katie  De  Groot,  also  a native  of  Holland  and  a daughter  of  Cornelius  De  Groot, 
who  is  a resident  of  Sheboygan,  Wisconsin.  By  this  union  there  are  five  children, 
namely:  Cornelius  Anthony,  Cora  Martha,  Elizabeth  Mary,  William  Jacob,  and 
Lawrence. 

Mr.  Verhulst  was  reared  in  the  faith  of  the  Dutch  Reformed  church,  and  in 
politics  is  socialistically  inclined.  His  life  is  in  harmony  with  his  professions 
and  those  who  know  him  entertain  for  him  the  highest  regard  because  of  his 
admirable  qualities  of  heart  and  mind. 


PATRICK  A.  BOYLE. 

Patrick  A.  Boyle,  a well  known  lumberman  and  farmer  of  Chippewa  county, 
was  born  in  Ingersoll,  Ontario,  July  29,  i860,  and  is  a son  of  Patrick  and 
Hannah  (Walsh)  Boyle,  both  of  Irish  origin.  The  father  engaged  in  farming  in 
Canada  and  later  came  to  Wisconsin,  where  he  lost  his  life  by  drowning.  He  is 
buried  in  Eau  Claire,  where  his  wife  still  resides. 

Patrick  A.  Boyle  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire 
and  laid  aside  his  text-books  when  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age.  Immediately 
afterward  he  turned  his  attention  to  the  lumber  business  and  has  since  been 


160 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  some  way  connected  with  this  industry,  either  as  foreman  of  a camp  or  as 
an  independent  logger.  He  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1908  and,  although  he 
has  not  abandoned  lumbering,  gives  a great  deal  of  his  time  and  attention  to 
his  farming  interests  here.  He  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  fine 

land  on  section  29,  Lafayette  township,  and  has  made  this  a valuable  and  pro- 

ductive property,  reflecting  everywhere  his  careful  supervision  and  practical 
labors. 

In  Eau  Claire,  on  the  3d  of  November,  1878,  Mr.  Boyle  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Rose  A.  McKay,  a daughter  of  Patrick  and  Mary  (Muldoon) 

McKay,  who  were  natives  of  Ireland  and  Rhode  Island,  respectively.  The 

former  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  Eau  Claire  county  and  died  there  in  1870. 
His  wife  survived  him  until  1911  and  both  are  buried  in  the  Catholic  cemetery 
in  Eau  Claire  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Boyle  became  the  parents  of  the  following  chil- 
dren: Helen,  who  was  graduated  from  high  school  and  afterward  married 
Alfred  Flagstad,  a draftsman  in  Bradford,  Ontario;  William  and  Patrick,  who 
are  assisting  their  father;  Paul,  a student  in  high  school;  Gladys,  also  attend- 
ing school;  and  Margaret  and  Lawrence,  who  died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Boyle  is  a member  of  the  Holy  Ghost  Roman  Catholic  church  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin. 
He  votes  independently  and  is  interested  in  the  progress  of  his  community, 
although  his  attention  has  largely  been  given  to  his  business  affairs,  the  capable 
management  of  which  has  brought  him  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 


H.  W.  GARDNER. 

H.  W.  Gardner,  engaged  in  general  and  dairy  farming,  is  the  owner  of  a 
tract  of  land  comprising  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  sections  19  and  30, 
township  30,  range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  the  state  of  New  York  on  the  28th 
of  February,  t866,  his  parents  being  William  and  Anna  Marie  (Pauley)  Gard- 
ner, the  former  a native  of  Germany.  Their  marriage  was  celebrated  in  the 
Empire  state.  William  Gardner  died  eighteen  years  ago,  passing  away  on  the 
farm  of  his  son  in  this  county.  His  widow  still  makes  her  home  with  her 
son,  H.  W. 

The  boyhood  of  H.  W.  Gardner  was  spent  in  New  York  and  his  education 
was  acquired  in  the  common  schools  of  that  state.  In  1883,  when  a youth  of 
seventeen,  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  here  began  working 
in  the  woods  and  sawmills.  In  1884  he  purchased  a tract  of  eighty  acres  of 
wild  land  and  undertook  the  task  of  development.  As  the  years  have  passed 
and  success  has  crowned  his  labors  as  an  agriculturist  he  has  made  additional 
purchases  of  land  until  his  holdings  now  embrace  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres 
on  section  30,  township  30,  range  6,  and  eighty  acres  on  section  19.  The  property 
is  lacking  in  none  of  the  improvements  and  accessories  of  a model  farm  of 
the  twentieth  century,  and  Mr.  Gardner  carries  on  both  dairy  and  general 
farming  with  excellent  results.  He  likewise  owns  a sawmill  and  has  operated 
the  same  successfully  for  many  years.  He  was  also  one  of  the  successful  log- 
gers on  the  Chippewa  waters  for  many  years. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


161 


In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Gardner  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss  Mary 
Johnson,  her  father  being  Rufus  Johnson,  who  is  deceased  and  a sketch  of 
whom  appears  on  another  page  of  this  work.  Mr.  Gardner  is  a democrat  in 
his  political  views  and  for  many  years  has  held  the  office  of  chairman  of  the 
township  board,  making  a creditable  record  in  that  connection.  The  period  of 
his  residence  in  this  county  covers  three  decades,  and  he  has  long  been  num- 
bered among  its  prosperous  and  esteemed  citizens. 


RHINEHARDT  GOETZ. 

Rhinehardt  Goetz,  who  devotes  his  attention  to  mixed  farming  with  excel- 
lent success,  is  the  owner  of  a well  improved  tract  of  land  comprising  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  24,  Sigel  township.  Chippewa  county  num- 
bers him  among  her  native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Sigel  township 
on  the  22d  of  September,  1880.  His  parents  were  Henry  and  Caroline  (Grassle) 
Goetz.  The  demise  of  the  father  occurred  on  the  10th  of  December,  1909, 
but  the  mother  still  survives  and  resides  on  the  old  homestead  farm. 

Rhinehardt  Goetz  attended  the  public  schools  of  his  native  township  until 
seventeen  years  of  age  and  subsequently  assisted  his  father  in  the  work  of  the 
fields  until  the  latter’s  death.  He  then  took  possession  of  a part  of  the  home 
place  and  has  since  been  busily  engaged  in  its  operation,  carrying  on  mixed 
farming  and  keeping  three  horses,  three  head  of  cattle  and  about  one  hundred 
and  ten  sheep  which  are  principally  pure  blooded  Shropshires.  He  erected  his 
residence  and  other  buildings  and  has  gained  recognition  as  an  enterprising 
and  successful  young  agriculturist  of  his  native  county. 

On  the  28th  of  December,  1909,  in  Sigel  township,  Mr.  Goetz  was  joined 
in  wedlock  to  Miss  Louise  Spaeth,  a daughter  of  C.  G.  and  Ernestine  (Rosen- 
thal) Spaeth.  The  mother,  who  passed  away  in  1895,  ^es  buried  in  the  Sigel 
cemetery,  but  the  father  still  survives  and  makes  his  home  in  the  town  of  Sigel. 
Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  one  child,  Alice.  In  his  political  views  Mr. 
Goetz  is  a stanch  republican,  while  his  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  mem- 
bership in  the  Lutheran  church.  He  has  many  friends  in  Chippewa  county, 
among  whom  he  is  highly  esteemed  and  respected. 


JULIUS  SIPPEL. 

By  hard  work,  intelligent  management  and  persistent  effort  Julius  Sippel 
has  met  with  excellent  success  in  the  management  of  his  two  hundred  and  forty 
acre  farm  in  Lafayette  township  and  is  numbered  today  among  the  most  pro- 
gressive and  able  agriculturists  in  his  locality.  He  was  born  in  Wurtemberg, 
Germany,  July  13,  1867,  and  is  a son  of  Henry  and  Margaret  Sippel,  who  came 
to  America  in  1881  and  settled  in  Chippewa  county,  where  the  father  passed 
away  in  1896,  at  the  age  of  seventy.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1900,  she 


162 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


also  being  seventy  years  of  age  at  the  time  of  her  death.  Both  are  buried  in 
the  Lafayette  cemetery. 

Julius  Sippel  acquired  his  education  in  his  native  country  and  in  the  public 
schools  of  Chippewa  county,  where  he  learned  English.  After  laying  aside  his 
books  he  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  for  some  time  and 
when  he  was  nineteen  years  of  age  obtained  employment  in  the  iron  mines, 
continuing  thus  for  about  eight  years.  He  then  purchased  one  hundred  and 
twenty  acres  of  good  land  and  after  developing  this  for  some  time  bought  two 
hundred  and  forty  acres  on  section  36,  Lafayette  township,  a property  whereon 
he  has  since  resided.  He  engages  in  mixed  farming  and  has  been  very  success- 
ful, his  farm  being  today  one  of  the  best  equipped  and  most  valuable  in  this 
vicinity. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  29th  of  December,  1888,  Mr.  Sippel  married 
Miss  Lucinda  Wells,  a daughter  of  Romanzo  and  Harriet  (Smock)  Wells,  the 
former  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  Lie  makes  his  home  in  Washington  and  sur- 
vives his  wife,  who  is  buried  in  Lafayette  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sippel 
became  the  parents  of  five  children : Emma,  who  lives  at  home ; Elmer  J., 
assisting  his  father;  Harriet,  at  home;  Alvin  M.,  also  aiding  in  the  operation 
of  the  homestead ; and  Thomas  A.,  who  died  in  1909  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette 
township.  Mrs.  Sippel  passed  away  in  1908.  Mr.  Sippel  is  a member  of  the 
German  Lutheran  church  and  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is 
numbered  among  the  able  and  progressive  men  of  this  community  and  through 
industry  and  perseverance  has  acquired  a high  standing  in  agricultural  circles.^ 


EDWARD  PORTER. 

Edward  Porter,  who  has  conducted  a real-estate  business  at  Cornell  since  the 
spring  of  1913,  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1877  and  has  therefore  resided  within 
its  borders  for  more  than  a third  of  a century.  His  birth  occurred  in  Durham, 
Quebec,  Canada,  on  the  25th  of  May,  1853,  his  parents  being  William  and 
Margaret  Porter.  The  family  is  of  Irish  origin.  William  Porter,  an  agricul- 
turist by  occupation,-  passed  away  in  1893,  while  his  wife  was  called  to  her 
final  rest  in  1896.  Both  are  buried  in  Durham,  Canada. 

Edward  Porter  obtained  his  education  in  the  place  of  his  nativity  and  when 
a youth  of  fourteen  put  aside  his  text-books  and  secured  a position  as  clerk 
in  a general  store,  being  employed  in  that  capacity  for  some  time.  Subse- 
quently he  spent  three  years  in  railroad  construction  work  in  the  state  of  Ver- 
mont and  afterward  did  the  same  kind  of  labor  in  Duluth  and  Superior.  His 
next  removal  was  to  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  he  worked  in  the  woods  and 
later  began  logging  in  partnership  with  Warren  Flint,  maintaining  that  associa- 
tion for  ten  years  and  continuing  in  the  business  until  1900.  In  connection 
with  his  logging  interests  he  also  carried  on  farming  until  the  year  in  which 
he  established  his  present  business  enterprise.  It  was  in  the  spring  of  1913  that 
he  embarked  in  the  real-estate  business  at  Cornell,  where  he  has  since  conducted 
operations  in  that  field  with  gratifying  success,  possessing  a thorough  and 


EDWARD  PORTER 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


165 


comprehensive  knowledge  of  realty  values  and  figuring  in  many  important  trans- 
actions. 

On  the  1 6th  of  September,  1882,  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Porter  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Jennie  F.  Kean,  her  father  being  I.  H.  Kean,  a 
merchant  of  Eau  Claire.  The  parents  are  both  deceased  and  lie  buried  in 
Sumner,  Washington,  where  Mr.  Kean  was  engaged  in  fruit  ranching.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Porter  have  three  children,  as  follows : Herbert  T.,  who  is  a civil  engineer 
by  profession;  Grace,  the  wife  of  Dr.  Ostrie,  of  Merrill,  Wisconsin;  and  Mar- 
garet, who  attends  the  high  school  at  Merrill,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  Porter  erected 
the  family  residence  at  Cornell. 

In  politics  Mr.  Porter  is  a stanch  republican  and  an  active  worker  in  the 
local  ranks  of  the  party.  lie  has  served  as  chairman  of  the  township  of  Hol- 
combe for  nine  years  and  at  present  acts  in  the  capacity  of  assessor  and  super- 
visor of  Cornell,  discharging  his  official  duties  in  a prompt  and  capable  manner. 
Fraternally  he  is  identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and 
the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  Genial  and  kindly  in  nature,  he  fully  appre- 
ciates his  obligations  to  his  fellowmen,  and  his  honorable  principles  and  upright 
manhood  have  won  for  him  the  high  regard,  confidence  and  good-will  of  all  with 
whom  he  has  come  in  contact. 


PETER  EMERSON. 

Peter  Emerson,  who  has  been  engaged  in  business  as  a cheese  manufacturer 
of  Chippewa  county  for  the  past  seventeen  years,  resides  in  Arthur  township, 
on  section  19,  township  30,  range  6.  He  is  now  the  proprietor  of  the  Crescent 
Cheese  Factory,  which  he  purchased  in  September,  1911,  and  also  conducts 
a general  mercantile  store  in  connection  therewith.  His  birth  occurred  in 
Oconomowoc,  Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  6th  of  October,  1873.  His 
parents  are  now  residents  of  Sigel  township,  Chippewa  county,  having  lived 
here  for  more  than  a third  of  a century  and  being  well  known  and  highly 
esteemed  throughout  the  community. 

Peter  Emerson,  who  was  a little  lad  of  six  years  when  he  came  to  this 
county  with  his  parents,  attended  the  common  schools  in  the  acquirement  of 
an  education.  He  learned  cheese  making  at  Anson  and  for  the  past  seventeen 
years  has  been  engaged  in  that  business.  Four  years  ago  he  leased  the  Monroe 
Cheese  Factory  at  Crescent  and  in  September,  1911,  bought  the  establishment, 
which  is  now  known  as  the  Crescent  Cheese  Factory.  It  has  a capacity  of 
eleven  thousand  pounds  of  milk  per  day,  and  its  thirty-five  patrons  make  an 
average  delivery  of  five  thousand  pounds  daily.  When  Mr.  Emerson  first  took 
hold  of  the  concern  only  three  thousand  pounds  of  milk  were  delivered  daily. 
He  makes  an  excellent  quality  of  cheese  and  has  won  an  enviable  reputation 
in  that  respect.  In  connection  with  his  factory  he  also  conducts  a general 
mercantile  store  and  is  accorded  a liberal  patronage  because  of  his  reasonable 
prices  and  well  selected  stock  of  goods.  He  is  a man  of  good  business  ability 
and  well  merits  the  success  which  has  attended  his  efforts  both  as  a manu- 
facturer and  merchant. 


166 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Emerson  chose 
Miss  Julia  Christianson,  a native  of  Norway,  by  whom  he  has  four  children, 
namely:  Evelyn,  Karles,  Laura  and  Albert.  The  religious  faith  of  the  family 
is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church.  The  period  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  county 
covers  thirty-four  years,  and  he  has  won  and  retained  the  regard  and  esteem 
of  a large  circle  of  friends  and  acquaintances  within  its  borders. 


REV.  JOSEPH  J.  CALLAHAN. 

Rev.  Joseph  J.  Callahan,  pastor  of  Notre  Dame  church  at  Chippewa  Falls, 
'was  born  in  Bay  City,  Michigan,  January  7,  1878,  and  is  a son  of  James  and 
Ellen  (Tuohy)  Callahan,  the  former  one  of  the  old  settlers  in  that  citv,  where  for. 
many  years  he  engaged  in  general  merchandising.  Both  parents  are  living  there 
now.  The  family  is  of  Irish  origin  but  its  members  have  been  in  America  for 
several  generations. 

Father  Callahan  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  parochial  schools  of 
Bay  City,  Michigan,  and  afterward  entered  Pittsburg  College  of  Pittsburg, 
Pennsylvania,  from  which  he  was  graduated  in  1897.  He  then  went  to  Rome, 
Italy,  where  he  took  a course  in  the  Gregorian  University,  after  which  he  returned 
to  the  United  States  and  was  ordained  in  1904  to  the  Catholic  priesthood  in 
St.  Vincent’s  Abbey,  Westmoreland  county,  Pennsylvania.  Immediately  after- 
ward he  became  connected  with  educational  interests  as  a professor  of  philosophy 
and  theology  in  Philadelphia  and  he  afterward  was  professor  of  classics  in  Pitts- 
burg and  for  about  seven  years  he  was  professor  of  philosophy  and  theology  at 
Ferndale,  Connecticut,  resigning  in  August,  1912,  when  he  was  appointed  pastor 
of  Notre  Dame  church  at  Chippewa  Falls.  Since  that  time  he  has  labored  ear- 
nestly and  untiringly  in  his  new  field  and  has  accomplished  a great  deal  of  con- 
secrated work  among  the  Catholic  people  of  the  city,  holding  their  love  in  large 
measure  as  he  does  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  the  people  of  all  denominations. 


THOMAS  W.  MELVILLE. 

Among  the  members  of  the  Melville  family  who  are  ably  carrying  forward 
the  work  which  their  father  began  in  early  times  in  the  Melville  Settlement  is 
numbered  Thomas  W.  Melville,  who  owns  and  operates  one  hundred  and 
twenty  acres  on  section  21,  Lafayette  township,  and  by  intelligent  management 
and  careful  cultivation  has  surrounded  himself  with  a gratifying  measure  of 
success. 

He  was  born  in  the  section  where  he  now  resides  August  27,  1865,  and  is 
a son  of  John  C.  Melville,  of  whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this 
work.  He  acquired  his  education  in  district  school  No.  4,  laying  aside  his 
books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  with  the  work 
of  the  homestead  until  he  was  twenty-two  and  then  spent  a few  years  in  the 
lumber  woods.  When  he  abandoned  this  occupation  he  purchased  his  present 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


167 


property,  finding  thirty-five  acres  broken  and  the  rest  entirely  unimproved. 
He  now  has  the  entire  tract  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  under  cultiva- 
tion and  has  erected  upon  it  excellent  buildings,  being  entirely  responsible  for 
its  present  excellent  condition.  Mixed  farming  and  dairying  occupy  his  atten- 
tion and  he  has  made  both  branches  profitable  sources  of  income. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  April  30,  1896,  Mr.  Melville  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Elsie  Bennett,  a daughter  of  James  and  Jane  (Baker)  Bennett.  The 
former  was  an  early  settler  in  Anson  township  and  for  many  years  engaged  in 
farming  there.  He  died  in  1903  and  is  buried  in  Sigel  cemetery.  His  wife 
survives  him  and  resides  upon  the  homestead,  being  now  over  seventy  years 
of  age.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Melville  became  the  parents  of  six  children : Irene, 
Morris,  Raymond  and  Albert,  who  are  attending  school ; Alice,  deceased ; and 
one  child  who  died  in  infancy.  The  two  latter  are  buried  in  the  Lafayette 
cemetery. 

Mr.  Melville  belongs  to  the  Modern  Brotherhood  of  America  and  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  a member  of  the  school 
board  and  is  interested  in  everything  pertaining  to  the  growth  and  development 
of  the  township  and  county.  He  has  made  many  substantial  contributions  to 
agricultural  progress  and  is  regarded  as  an  able  farmer  and  a public-spirited 
citizen. 


ANDREW  METOTT,  Jr. 

Andrew  Metott,  Jr.,  who  has  spent  his  entire  life,  covering  almost  a half 
century,  within  the  borders  of  Chippewa  county,  is  familiar  with  the  history 
of  this  region  from  early  days  to  the  present  and  experienced  many  of  the  hard- 
ships and  privations  of  pioneer  times.  He  is  successfully  engaged  in  dairy 
farming  in  Arthur  township,  owning  a tract  of  eighty  acres  on  section  23,  town- 
ship 30,  range  7. 

His  birth  occurred  on  the  old  homestead  in  Anson  township  on  the  19th  of 
January,  1864,  his  parents  being  Andrew  and  Mary  (Schnider)  Metott,  more 
extended  mention  of  whom  is  made  on  another  page  of  this  work.  He  was 
reared  to  manhood  on  the  home  farm  and  when  twenty-eight  years  of  age 

was  married  and  purchased  the  tract  of  eighty  acres  on  which  he  has  resided 

to  the  present  time.  About  an  acre  and  a half  of  the  land  was  cleared,  and 
the  only  building  on  the  place  was  a little  log  house.  Mr.  Metott  has  cleared 
seventy-five  acres  of  the  tract  and  forty  acres  thereof  are  under  cultivation. 
As  a dairy  farmer  he  has  won  success,  at  all  times  keeping  in  touch  with 
modern  and  progressive  methods.  His  buildings  include  a substantial  log  house 
and  barns,  and  he  is  now  contemplating  the  erection  of  a new  residence.  The 
farm  as  it  is  today  furnishes  evidence  of  the  enterprise,  thrift  and  ability  of 
Mr.  Metott,  for  it  was  merely  a tract  of  wild  land  when  it  came  into  his  pos- 
session. Twenty  years  ago  he  cut  and  hauled  logs  to  Cadott  and  sold  them 

for  five  dollars  per  M.  At  the  present  time  he  is  obliged  to  pay  sixty  dollars 

per  M.  for  the  same  kind  of  lumber.  He  sold  oats  for  fifteen  cents  per  bushel 
and  wheat  at  forty-five  cents,  and  well  remembers  the  struggle  for  a livelihood 


168 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  pioneer  days.  As  the  years  have  passed,  however,  prosperity  has  attended 
his  efforts  and  he  is  now  numbered  among  the  successful  and  esteemed  citizens 
of  his  native  county. 

In  1892,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Metott  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Caddy  Bell,  who  was  born  in  Richland  county,  Wisconsin,  in  1872,  her  parents 
being  Adam  and  Belinda  (Bartels)  Bell.  The  mother  is  deceased,  but  the  father 
still  resides  on  the  farm  in  Arthur  township  which  has  been  his  home  for  about 
thirty  years.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Metott  have  five  children,  namely:  Oscar,  Fern, 

Donald,  Malcolm  and  Harold.  All  are  still  under  the  parental  roof. 

Mr.  Metott  is  a republican  in  his  political  views  and  has  served  as  a mem- 
ber of  the  school  board,  the  cause  of  education  ever  finding  in  him  a stanch 
champion.  He  has  always  been  a man  of  exemplary  habits  and  strict  integrity 
and  in  the  course  of  his  life  has  performed  his  part  in  advancing  the  true  wel- 
fare of  the  community. 


RICHARD  G.  BENNETT. 

Richard  G.  Bennett,  carrying  on  mixed  farming  upon  a property  of  eighty 
acres  on  section  20,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  upon  this  farm  in  an  old 
cabin,  which  is  still  standing,  August  28,  1878,  his  parents  being  Jonathan  and 
Mary  (Johnson)  Bennett.  The  family  is  of  Irish  origin.  Jonathan  Bennett 
came  from  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  to  Chippewa  county  in  1873  and  purchased 
land  in  Lafayette  township.  He  found  his  farm  a wilderness,  covered  with  a 
dense  growth  of  heavy  timber,  and  he  was  obliged  to  clear  this  before  the  work 
of  cultivation  could  be  begun.  With  the  timber  which  he  cut  down  he  built  a 
log  house  and  resided  in  this  for  many  years,  becoming  during  the  time  a pros- 
perous agriculturist  and  well  known  in  public  affairs.  He  died  in  1898,  at 
the  age  of  fifty-five,  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  His  wife  survives 
him  and  makes  her  home  with  her  son,  the  subject  of  this  review. 

Richard  G.  Bennett  acquired  a limited  education  in  the  district  schools  but 
is  largely  self-educated,  having  made  up  for  his  early  disadvantages  along  this 
line  by  constant  study  and  reading.  On  account  of  his  father’s  ill  health  he  was 
obliged  to  lay  aside  his  books  at  the  early  age  of  twelve  and  to  assist  in  the  oper- 
ation of  the  homestead,  gradually  assuming  entire  control.  He  has  made  all 
of  the  improvements  upon  the  place,  erecting  a commodious  residence  and  good 
barns  and  installing  modern  machinery.  The  farm  is  today  a valuable  property 
and  worthy  of  comparison  with  the  best  in  his  locality.  Mr.  Bennett  is  also 
well  known  as  the  organizer  of  the  Lafayette  Creamery  and  has  been  secretary, 
treasurer  and  general  manager  of  this  concern  since  its  foundation.  He  was 
also  for  three  years  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Melville  Settlement  Tele- 
phone Company  and  his  ability  is  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 

Mr.  Bennett  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Masonic  order,  being  a member  of  the  blue  lodge,  chapter 
and  commandery.  He  also  belongs  to  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows. 
In  politics  he  is  a stanch  republican  and  has  been  very  active  in  public  affairs, 
serving  as  clerk  of  the  school  district  for  twelve  years  and  being  now  in  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


169 


fourth  term  of  his  able  service  as  township  clerk.  He  is  numbered  among 
Chippewa  county's  most  active  and  progressive  native  sons  and  his  success  has 
been  worthily  won  and  is  well  used. 


ROBERT  W.  HENDRY. 


Among  the  men  who  have  been  active  in  shaping  the  agricultural  develop- 
ment of  Chippewa  county  is  numbered  Robert  W.  Hendry,  who  since  1875  has 
lived  upon  his  farm  of  two  hundred  and  eighty  acres  on  section  20,  Lafayette 
township,  bringing  it  by  his  untiring  industry  and  well  directed  labor  from  a 
wilderness  to  a productive  and  modern  property. 

He  was  born  near  Daihousie,  in  lower  Canada,  January  19,  1849,  and  is 
a son  of  William  and  Eliza  (Stewart)  Hendry,  the  former  of  whom  was  born 
in  Scotland.  He  followed  teaching  in  that  country  until  1832  and  then  came 
to  America,  settling  in  Canada,  where  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  He 
resumed  this  occupation  in  Chippewa  county,  whither  he  came  in  1868,  and 
he  resided  afterward  with  his  son,  the  subject  of  this  review.  He  died  in 
1889,  at  the  age  of  seventy-four,  and  was  survived  by  his  wife,  who  passed 
away  in  January,  1897,  when  she  was  almost  seventy  years  of  age.  Both  are 
buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  They  reared  a family  of  ten  children  besides 
the  subject  of  this  review:  Mary,  the  wife  of  Alfred  Grammont,  of  Oregon; 
Elizabeth,  who  married  A.  J.  Scholenberg,  of  Newport,  Oregon;  Rev.  William, 
supervising  pastor  of  the  Presbyterian  church ; Peter  S.,  a farmer  in  Scio, 
Oregon ; Alexander,  a dentist  at  Marshfield,  Oregon ; George  H.,  following 
the  blacksmith’s  trade  at  Holcombe,  Wisconsin;  Neil  F.,  traveling  salesman  for 
the  Lang  Grocery  Company  of  Eau  Claire;  Walter,  a baker  in  Minneapolis, 
Minnesota;  Anna,  the  wife  of  Fred  Smith,  a carpenter  in  La  Moine,  California; 
and  James  H.,  a bookkeeper  in  San  Diego,  California. 

Robert  W.  Hendry  is  a self-made  man,  for  from  a very  early  age  he  has 
been  entirely  dependent  upon  his  own  resources  for  a livelihood.  He  acquired 
a meagre  education  in  his  native  province,  but,  being  the  oldest  son,  was  soon 
obliged  to  lay  aside  his  books  and  begin  working  at  something  which  would 
bring  him  an  income.  He  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1868  and  until  1871 
worked  in  the  logging  camps,  later  turning  his  attention  to  selling  timber  on 
his  own  account.  He  continued  thus  until  1897  but  in  the  meantime  had  pur- 
chased his  present  farm,  upon  which  he  settled  in  1875.  It  was  practically  a 
wilderness,  only  ten  acres  being  broken,  the  remainder  being  covered  with  a 
dense  growth  of  oak  and  poplar  trees.  These  Mr.  Hendry  felled  and  then 
grubbed  up  the  stumps,  broke  the  soil  and  got  it  into  condition  for  cultivation. 
The  work  of  development  has  been  carried  forward  steadily  year  by  year  until 
today  two  hundred  acres  have  been  wrested  from  the  wilderness  and  are  planted 
in  the  grains  best  adapted  to  the  soil  and  climate.  Upon  this  excellent  property 
Mr.  Hendry  has  made  substantial  improvements,  erecting  a fine  residence  and 
good  outbuildings,  all  substantial  and  in  good  repair.  He  engages  in  general 
farming,  specializing  in  the  breeding  of  Holstein  cattle,  draft  horses,  Shrop- 


170 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


shire  sheep  and  Poland  China  hogs,  his  stock-raising  interests  being  extensive 
and  important  sources  of  income  to  him. 

In  Eau  Claire,  December  25,  1881,  Mr.  Hendry  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Mary  Douglas,  a daughter  of  D.  S.  and  Sarah  (Cop)  Douglas,  the  former 
a veteran  of  the  Civil  war  and  a pioneer  in  Chippewa  county.  He  was  a loyal 
supporter  of  the  republican  party  and  held  various  township  positions,  being 
a member  also  of  the  school  board.  He  passed  away  and  is  buried  in  the  Anson 
cemetery.  His  wife  survives  him  and  is  living  in  Anson  on  the  homestead  at 
the  age  of  eighty-five.  Mrs.  Hendry  passed  away  June  9,  1895,  at  the  a&e  of 
forty-one,  and  is  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery.  She  left  four  children: 
Robert  D.,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  Bessie,  the  wife  of  Sam  Wolf,  a farmer 
in  the  Melville  settlement;  Marjorie,  who  married  Dr.  A.  F.  Brown,  of  Eau 
Claire;  and  Maud,  residing  at  home. 

Mr.  Hendry  is  a devout  member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Since  early  times  he  has  taken 
an  active  interest  in  public  affairs,  applying  for  and  securing  one  of  the  first 
mail  routes  in  Chippewa  county.  He  has  served  on  the  township  board  and 
also  as  a member  of  the  school  board  and  has  gained  an  enviable  reputation  for 
conscientiousness  and  energy  in  the  public  service.  During  the  forty-five  years 
he  has  lived  in  this  county  he  has  contributed  substantially  to  the  general  devel- 
opment and  progress,  while  his  upright  and  honorable  life  has  gained  him  the 
esteem  and  confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


ROBERT  SERB. 

Robert  Selb  is  a well  known  butcher  of  Cadott  where  he  has  been  established 
in  business  since  1885.  He  was  born  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  March  27,  1861, 
a son  of  Max  and  Elizabeth  Selb,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in 
183  s and  the  latter  in  1839.  The  parents  came  to  America  in  j86i  and  settled 
in  this  state,  where  the  father  followed  the  milling  business  until  about  1874. 
He  then  removed  to  Eau  Claire,  remaining  in  business  there  for  about  three 
years.  He  next  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  remained  about  four  years, 
and  then  removed  to  Cadott,  living  there  until  his  death  in  1892.  His  wife 
survived  him  until  1911.  In  their  family  were  five  children:  Elizabeth,  who 
died  in  i860;  Robert,  of  this  review;  Peter;  Paul,  who  passed  away  m 1865: 
and  John,  who  died  in  1882. 

Robert  Selb  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  Falls 
and  Eau  Claire,  attending  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age.  After  laying 
aside  his  books  he  became  connected  with  the  butcher  business  in  the  capacity 
of  clerk  and  so  continued  for  ten  years  thereafter.  At  the  end  of  that  time 
he  opened  a shop  of  his  own  in  Cadott  and  for  the  past  twenty-eight  years  has 
been  continuously  in  business  in  that  city.  He  sells  about  fifty  tons  of  meat 
every  year  and  controls  an  important  and  representative  trade,  accorded  to 
him  in  recognition  of  his  fair  and  honorable  business  methods  and  his  reason- 
able prices.  In  addition  to  his  shop  Mr.  Selb  owns  a comfortable  residence  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


171 


Cadott,  four  town  lots,  and  a farm  of  forty  acres  on  section  33,  township  29, 
range  6,  west. 

At  Boyd,  Wisconsin,  on  Thanksgiving  day,  1893,  Mr.  Selb  married  Miss 
Emma  Lancour,  a daughter  of  Mitchell  and  Matilda  (Lavell)  Lancour.  Both 
parents  have  passed  away,  the  father  dying  in  1909  at  the  age  of  ninety  and 
the  mother  in  1907  at  the  age  of  eighty-seven.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Selb  have  two 
children:  Francis,  who  was  born  January  25,  1895;  and  Irene,  who  was  born 
February  15,  1896. 

Mr.  Selb  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  He  votes  independ- 
ently, supporting  men  and  measures  rather  than  parties.  For  two  years  he 
served  as  trustee  of  Cadott  and  he  proved  a very  capable  public  official,  dis- 
charging his  duties  in  a creditable  and  able  manner.  His  ability  is  known  and 
recognized  in  business  circles  and  twenty-eight  years  of  fair  and  honorable 
dealing  have  gained  him  a place  among  the  representative  and  substantial  busi- 
ness men  of  the  city. 


JOHN  W.  MELVILLE. 

John  W.  Melville,  who  since  1881  has  lived  upon  his  present  farm  of  one 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  in  the  Melville  Settlement,  has  since  that  time  devel- 
oped this  from  a tract  of  wild  land  into  a productive  and  valuable  property, 
which  annually  returns  him  a gratifying  income.  He  has  lived  in  Chippewa 
county  since  he  was  eight  years  of  age,  his  father  having  been  one  of  the  original 
founders  of  the  Melville  Settlement.  Further  mention  of  his  career  will  be 
found  on  another  page  in  this  work. 

Tohn  W.  Melville  was  born  in  Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  August  22, 
1848.  a son  of  John  C.  Melville.  He  acquired  his  education  in  his  native  county 
and  in  district  school  No.  4,  Lafayette  township,  this  county.  He  laid  aside 
his  books  at  the  age  of  eighteen  but  even  before  this  time  had  spent  his  sum- 
mers aiding  in  the  operation  of  the  homestead.  When  he  left  school  he  went 
to  the  lumber  woods,  where  he  chopped  and  sawed  wood,  and  later  engaged 
in  logging.  During  this  time  also  he  operated  a threshing  machine,  these  activ- 
ities engaging  his  attention  until  1881.  In  that  year  he  bought  one  hundred 
and  twenty  acres  of  land  on  section  29,  Lafayette  township,  and  since  that 
time  has  carried  forward  the  work  of  improving  and  developing  that  property. 
When  he  took  up  his  residence  upon  it  he  found  it  a tract  of  wild  land,  with 
not  even  a road  leading  to  it.  He  cleared  the  heavy  timber  and  with  the  lum- 
ber which  he  cut  down  built  a loghouse,  in  which  he  lived  for  many  years.  His 
perseverance  and  well  directed  labor  were  finally  rewarded  by  success  and 
his  farm  each  year  became  more  productive  and  valuable  until  today  it  is  one 
of  the  finest  properties  in  this  section  of  the  state.  Mr.  Melville  engages  in 
general  farming  and  dairying  and,  being  a progressive  business  man  as  well 
as  an  able  agriculturist,  has  met  with  a gratifying  measure  of  success. 

In  this  township,  February  7,  1878,  Mr.  Melville  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Margaret  Hunt,  a daughter  of  Joseph  and  Nancy  Hunt,  of  Rochester, 
New  York.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Mount  Hope  cemetery,  that  city.  Mrs. 


172 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Melville  passed  away  in  February,  1894,  leaving  five  children:  Scott,  of  Point 

Richmond,  California;  Ernest  W.,  a plumber  in  Oakland,  that  state;  Nina  N., 
the  wife  of  Ben  F.  Babcock,  of  Kerriston,  Washington;  Bertha,  who  married 
Harry  Emerson,  a farmer  in  this  district ; and  Stanley,  who  is  assisting  his 
father. 

Mr.  Melville  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  He  takes  an  intelligent  interest  in  community  affairs  and  has 
been  active  in  public  life  for  the  past  forty  years,  during  which  time  he  has 
served  as  supervisor,  assessor  and  member  of  the  school  board.  His  support 
is  given  always  to  worthy  and  progressive  projects  and  his  interests  have  lain 
along  lines  of  progress  and  advancement,  so  that  his  activities  have  been  impor- 
tant elements  in  the  general  growth. 


MRS.  IDA  E.  DICKINSON. 

Mrs.  Ida  E.  Dickinson  is  the  owner  of  the  Oak  Ridge  Farm  on  section  18, 
Anson  township.  The  place  comprises  two  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  and 
is  a well  developed  property  which  is  being  capably  managed  by  Mrs.  Dickinson, 
who  is  one  of  Chippewa  county’s  native  daughters.  Her  birth  occurred  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  October  25,  1858,  her  parents  being  Robert  Ebright  and  Eleanor 
(Harris)  Davis.  The  father  was  one  of  the  old-time  loggers  of  this  section  of 
the  state,  taking  contracts  for  logging  and  he  was  also  active  in  public  affairs, 
serving  as  chairman  of  Anson  township  at  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in 
1873.  For  about  nine  years  he  had  survived  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in  1864. 
They  had  come  to  this  county  when  there  was  hardly  another  white  woman  within 
its  borders,  Mrs.  Davis  being  probably  the  third  white  woman  in  this  section. 
At  the  time  of  the  Civil  war  Mr.  Davis  responded  to  the  country’s  call  for  troops 
and  loyally  defended  the  interests  of  the  Union  through  the  darkest  hour  in  our 
nation’s  history.  He  enlisted  on  September  27,  1864,  in  Company  B,  Nineteenth 
Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry  and  was  honorably  discharged  August  9,  1865.  He 
was  ever  interested  in  the  welfare  of  his  comrades  and  when  death  called  him  he 
was  laid  to  rest  with  military  honors  in  Lafayette  cemetery. 

The  daughter,  Ida  E.  Davis,  pursued  her  education  in  the  schools  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls  and  afterward  engaged  in  teaching  for  a few  years  but  later  re- 
mained at  home  and  assisted  in  the  household  duties  until  her  marriage,  which 
was  celebrated  on  the  25th  of  May,  1881,  at  Chippewa  Falls.  She  became  the 
wife  of  Ralph  P.  Dickinson,  who  was  a farmer  of  this  county.  He,  too,  was  a 
representative  of  one  of  the  old  pioneer  families,  his  parents  being  Myron  and 
Jane  E.  (Russell)  Dickinson,  who  were  early  residents  of  the  county.  Both 
are  deceased  and  their  remains  rest  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  The  parents  of  both 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Dickinson  went  through  the  Indian  scare  in  this  county  when  all 
the  white  people  congregated  in  the  old  Rosseau  Hotel  in  the  old  French  town, 
for  protection.  They  found,  however,  that  their  fears  were  unwarranted  and 
soon  returned  to  their  homes.  All  of  the  experiences,  hardships  and  privations 
of  pioneer  life  were  known  to  the  two,  families  and  in  its  early  settlement  they 


MR.  AND  MRS.  RALPH  P.  DICKINSON 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


175 


bore  an  active  and  helpful  part  in  the  work  of  general  development  and  im- 
provement. 

Ralph  P.  Dickinson  was  reared  in  this  county  and  had  the  usual  experiences 
of  a farmer  boy,  acquiring  a public-school  education  and  being  trained  to  the 
work  of  the  fields.  In  1886  he  was  elected  superintendent  of  the  county  poor- 
house,  and  after  eight  years’  capable  service  in  that  connection  was  elected  to  the 
office  of  superintendent  of  the  county  asylum,  holding  both  offices.  He  was  a 
very  popular  man  and  he  was  retained  in  those  positions  through  democratic 
administrations,  notwithstanding  the  fact  that  he  was  a stanch  and  stalwart  repub- 
lican. He  was  still  filling  office  at  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  Novem- 
ber 13,  1909,  when  he  was  fifty-two  years  of  age,  his  remains  being  interred  in 
Lafayette  cemetery.  He  enjoyed  the  respect  and  good-will  of  all  who  knew  him 
and  had  a circle  of  friends  almost  coextensive  with  the  circle  of  his  acquaint- 
ances. He  was  devoted  to  the  welfare  and  happiness  of  his  family  and  all  who 
knew  him  recognized  his  loyalty  and  his  reliability. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Dickinson  were  the  parents  of  three  children.  Dr.  Carl  Dick- 
inson, the  eldest,  graduated  from  the  Chicago  College  of  Dental  Surgery  and 
practised  seven  years  in  Wisconsin  and  Minnesota.  On  account  of  ill  health 
he  engaged  in  farming  and  is  now  in  charge  of  his  mother’s  farm.  He  married 
Ella  Wagner,  of  Downing,  Wisconsin,  a daughter  of  August  and  Krug  Wagner, 
the  former  a railroad  man  who  resides  in  Downing.  Mrs.  Carl  Dickinson  is  a 
graduate  of  the  River  Falls  Normal  School.  Unto  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Dickinson 
has  been  born  a son,  Ralph.  The  second  son  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ralph  P.  Dick- 
inson was  given  his  father’s  name.  He  is  now  a student  in  the  high  school.  A 
daughter,  Irma,  is  the  wife  of  Delbert  Hock,  of  Los  Angeles,  California.  The 
family  is  one  widely  and  favorably  known  in  Anson  township  and  other  sections 
of  the  county.  Mrs.  Dickinson  has  spent  her  entire  life  here  and  has  an  ex- 
tensive acquaintance.  She  has  been  an  interested  witness  of  the  many  changes 
which  have  occurred  through  the  past  half  century  and  speaks  with  authority 
upon  many  points  relating  to  the  history  of  Chippewa  county. 


ANDREW  METOTT,  Sr. 

Andrew  Metott,  Sr.,  whose  demise  occurred  in  Arthur  township  on  the  16th 
of  January,  1907,  was  one  of  the  early  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and  devoted 
his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits  throughout  his  active  business 
career,  owning  and  operating  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  sec- 
tions 22  and  27,  township  30,  range  7. 

He  was  born  in  the  state  of  New  York  on  the  8th  of  September,  1829,  a 
son  of  Francis  Metott,  who  was  a native  of  France.  When  Chippewa  county 
was  still  but  sparsely  settled  and  largely  undeveloped,  Andrew  Metott  came 
here  and  homesteaded  eighty  acres  of  land  south  of  Jim  Falls,  being  the  earliest 
resident  in  that  part  of  the  county.  Subsequently  he  disposed  of  the  property 
and  homesteaded  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  wild  land  on  sections  22  and 
27,  township  30,  range  7.  No  roads  had  been  built  and  the  region  was  still 
in  its  natural  state.  Mr.  Metott  erected  a log  house,  improved  his  land  and 

Vol  il—  I 0 


176 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OE  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


later  built  the  frame  dwelling  which  is  still  standing  on  the  place.  Through- 
out the  remainder  of  his  life  he  gave  his  time  and  energies  to  general  farming 
pursuits  there,  gaining  recognition  as  one  of  the  substantial  and  respected 
citizens  of  the  community. 

In  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Metott  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss  Mary 
Schnider,  a native  of  Wisconsin,  who  passed  away  on  the  old  home  farm  in 
1881.  They  became  the  parents  of  seven  children,  as  follows:  Mary,  who  is 

the  wife  of  Walter  Williams  and  resides  in  Drywood,  Wisconsin;  Andrew,  who 
is  a resident  of  Arthur  township;  Amelia,  who  died  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years; 
Sarah,  the  wife  of  Charles  Apley,  of  Idaho;  Octavia,  who  gave  her  hand  in 
marriage  to  Arthur  Negus  and  makes  her  home  in  North  Dakota;  Peter,  who 
lives  on  the  home  farm;  and  Philip,  who  wedded  Miss  Mary  Scheidler  and 
also  resides  on  the  old  home  place.  Peter  and  Philip  came  into  possession  of 
their  father’s  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  and  have  since  added  forty 
acres  to  the  same.  They  devote  their  attention  to  dairy  farming  and  have 
about  one  hundred  acres  of  the  land  under  cultivation.  All  of  the  improve- 
ments on  the  property,  including  a frame  residence  and  barn,  were  made  by 
the  Metott  family.  Peter  Metott  has  spent  his  entire  life  in  this  county  and 
is  well  and  favorably  known  as  one  of  its  enterprising  and  progressive  agri- 
culturists. 

Andrew  Metott  was  a republican  in  politics,  becoming  a supporter  of  that 
party  when  it  was  formed  and  casting  a vote  for  its  first  candidate.  He  was 
prominent  in  local  ranks  of  the  party  and  held  the  office  of  township  treasurer 
for  a number  of  years.  Such  in  brief  is  the  history  of  Mr.  Metott,  a man  whose 
life  at  all  times  measured  up  to  the  highest  standards  and  who,  by  his  many 
splendid  qualities,  gained  the  respect,  confidence  and  good-will  of  all  who  knew 
him. 


WILLIAM  JOHNSON. 

William  Johnson,  one  of  the  largest  fruit  growers  in  Chippewa  county, 
owning  and  operating  a fine  fruit  and  dairy  farm  'of  one  hundred  acres  on 
section  31,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  in  Rochester,  New  York,  July  18, 
1865,  a son  of  Joseph  and  Isabelle  (Williamson)  Johnson.  The  father  came 
to  Chippewa  county  with  his  family  in  1875  and  purchased  from  a Mrs.  Cornell 
an  unimproved  farm.  It  was  covered  with  a dense  growth  of  oak  timber  but 
this  Mr.  Johnson  cleared  and  by  diligence  and  well  directed  labor  gradually 
developed  a productive  property.  He  enlisted  for  the  Civil  war  but  was  rejected 
on  account  of  a broken  leg.  For  many  years  he  continued  to  reside  upon  his 
property  in  Lafayette  township,  dying  upon  his  holdings  November  14,  1908,  when 
he  was  seventy-eight  years  of  age.  His  wife  survives  him,  making  her  home 
with  the  subject  of  this  review,  and  is  now  seventy-four  years  of  age.  The 
family  is  of  very  old  Danish  origin  but  its  representatives  settled  in  England 
many  centuries  ago. 

William  Johnson  was  ten  years  of  age  when  he  came  with  his  parents 
to  Chippewa  county  and  he  completed  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


177 


this  locality.  At  the  age  of  thirteen  he  laid  aside  his  books  and  afterward 
assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead,  continuing  thus  until  he 
was  twenty  years  of  age.  He  then  traveled  through  the  western  part  of  this 
country  for  eight  years  and  upon  his  return  settled  upon  the  property  which 
he  now  operates.  Since  that  time  he  has  specialized  in  fruit  and  dairy  farm- 
ing, having  put  out  over  twelve  hundred  bearing  trees,  his  orchard  being  the 
third  largest  in  this  part  of  the  state.  Since  taking  up  his  residence  upon  it 
Mr.  Johnson  has  greatly  improved  his  farm,  erecting  a comfortable  residence 
and  good  outbuildings  and  neglecting  nothing  which  will  add  to  its  appearance 
or  value. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  ioth  of  June,  1S93,  Mr.  Johnson  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Emerson,  a daughter  of  Ole  Emerson,  one  of  the  earliest 
settlers  in  this  township.  Air.  and  Mrs.  Johnson  have  two  children:  Verner  L., 
a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school ; and  Eunice  N.,  who  is  attend- 
ing that  institution. 

Mr.  Johnson  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  connected  frater- 
nally with  the  lodge,  chapter  and  commandery  of  the  Masonic  order  and  is 
also  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  He  and  his  family 
belong  to  the  Episcopal  church.  He  is  well  known  throughout  this  part  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  being  a progressive  citizen  and  a substantial  and  prosperous 
agriculturist. 


JOHN  TURECEK. 

John  Turecek,  a well  known  and  prosperous  agriculturist  of  Arthur  town- 
ship, is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  eighty  acres  on  section  31,  township  30,  range  6, 
and  devotes  his  attention  to  dairy  farming  with  excellent  results.  His  birth 
occurred  in  Bohemia  on  the  13th  of  February,  1862,  his  parents  being  Joseph 
and  Carolina  Turecek,  both  of  whom  passed  away  in  that  country.  He  was 
one  of  a family  of  four  children,  and  his  three  brothers  are  still  residents  of 
Bohemia. 

When  a young  man  of  nineteen  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States 
and  afterward  worked  in  rolling  mills  at  Pittsburg,  Pennsylvania,  for  a year 
and  a half.  His  financial  resources  were  very  limited,  and  when  married  at 
Pittsburg  he  was  obliged  to  borrow  five  dollars  in  order  to  pay  the  priest. 
His  wife's  people  insisted  that  he  establish  a home  in  Wisconsin,  and  he  there- 
fore sold  his  furniture  in  Pittsburg  for  nine  dollars.  In  this  state  he  located 
at  Leopolis,  Shawano  county,  and  in  the  struggle  for  a livelihood  scorned  no 
employment  that  offered  an  honest  dollar.  Subsequently  he  removed  to  Antigo, 
Wisconsin,  and  there  worked  in  a sawmill,  while  later  he  lived  in  Duluth  and 
also  in  Superior.  Returning  to  Leopolis,  Wisconsin,  he  there  embarked  in  the 
saloon  business  and,  the  venture  proving  profitable,  later  came  to  Cadott,  Chip- 
pewa county,  with  fifteen  hundred  dollars.  In  association  with  a partner  he 
here  engaged  in  business  as  a merchant  but  disposed  of  his  interests  for  nine 
hundred  dollars  when  he  felt  that  he  was  being  defrauded.  He  next  purchased 
eighty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  31,  township  30,  range  6,  and  has  there 


178 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


made  his  home  to  the  present  time.  The  property  was  only  slightly  improved 
when  it  came  into  his  possession  but  is  now  neat  and  attractive  in  every  respect, 
the  buildings  thereon  being  both  substantial  and  modern.  As  above  stated,  he 
devotes  his  attention  to  dairy  farming  and  in  this  branch  of  activity  has  won 
a well  merited  measure  of  success.  In  the  course  of  his  career  he  has  encoun- 
tered obstacles  and  difficulties  that  would  have  disheartened  a man  of  less 
resolute  spirit,  but  he  has  worked  steadily  on  and  has  gained  a place  among  the 
substantial  and  representative  citizens  of  his  community. 

Mr.  Turecek  has  been  married  twice.  He  first  wedded  Miss  Annie  Ashen- 
brener,  a native  of  Bohemia,  who  died  in  Leopolis,  Wisconsin,  leaving  him  with 
nine  children,  some  of  whom  were  still  quite  small.  Her  death  was  his  hardest 
blow,  for  she  had  been  a faithful  helpmate  to  him  in  his  early  struggles.  Three 
years  later,  in  Shawano  county,  he  wedded  Miss  Mary  Vomostek,  likewise  a 
native  of  Bohemia,  by  whom  he  has  three  children.  The  record  of  his  family 
is  as  follows:  Mary,  who  is  the  wife  of  George  Bruner  and  resides  at  Eland 
Junction,  Wisconsin;  Joseph,  who  is  married  and  makes  his  home  at  Witten- 
berg, Wisconsin;  John,  at  home;  Annie,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to 
Rhinold  Nitzel,  of  Shawano  county;  Charles,  at  home;  George,  who  is  a musi- 
cian and  an  attendant  in  the  asylum  at  Independence,  Iowa;  and  Emma,  Frankie, 
Mattis,  Rosa,  Ella  and  Wila,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Turecek  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  has 
served  as  a member  of  the  township  board  of  supervisors  for  two  years,  while 
for  a similar  period  he  acted  in  the  capacity  of  school  director.  His  life  work 
may  well  serve  as  an  example  to  others  who  wish  to  attain  success  but  must 
start  out  in  life  as  he  did,  without  capital  or  the  aid  of  influential  friends.  Grad- 
ually he  has  worked  his  way  upward  and  his  efforts  have  been  effective  forces 
in  the  attainment  of  prosperity  in  this  country,  where  “labor  is  Ting.” 


MATHIAS  GOODMAN. 

Mathias  Goodman,  one  of  the  prosperous  and  representative  agriculturists  of 
Chippewa  county,  residing  on  section  36,  township  30,  range  7,  is  the  owner  of 
eleven  forty-acre  tracts  in  one  body  and  has  an  excellent  set  of  improvements 
thereon.  His  birth  occurred  in  the  grand  duchy  of  Baden,  Germany,  on  the  15th 
of  April,  1848,  his  parents  being  Anton  and  Gertrude  (Spath)  Goodman.  In 
1873,  when  a young  man  of  nearly  twenty-six  years,  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to 
the  United  States  in  a sailing  vessel,  the  voyage  consuming  three  weeks.  He 
made  his  way  to  Chicago  by  rail  and  thence  journeyed  by  rail  to  Eau  Claire,  com- 
ing from  the  latter  place  to  Chippewa  Falls  by  stage.  After  arriving  in  Chippewa 
county  he  worked  as  a farm  hand  and  also  in  the  woods.  When  his  capital  per- 
mitted he  purchased  eighty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  24,  township  30,  range  7, 
improved  the  property  and  resided  thereon  for  twenty  years.  In  1885  he  became 
associated  with  his  brother  in  the  conduct  of  a store  at  Drywood,  being  thus  actively 
identified  with  mercantile  interests  until  he  sold  his  share  in  the  enterprise  in 
1896.  In  that  year  he  bought  land  in  section  36,  township  30,  range  6,  and  now 
owns  eleven  forty-acre  tracts  in  one  body.  He  carries  on  general  farming  with 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


179 


excellent  success  and  has  a fine  set  of  buildings  on  the  place.  As  the  years  have 
passed  his  prosperity  has  increased  until  he  is  now  numbered  among  the  leading 
agriculturists  of  the  community. 

While  still  in  Germany,  Mr.  Goodman  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Theresa 
Streabel,  also  a native  of  that  country,  with  whom  he  attended  school.  Their 
children  are  as  follows:  Louise,  who  is  the  wife  of  Frank  Gardner;  Barney,  an 
agriculturist  of  Arthur  township;  Lena,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  Felix 
Sargent  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Charles,  at  home;  Edith,  the  wife  of  Leo  Sault,  of 
St.  Paul ; Mary,  the  wife  of  Dr.  Melby,  of  Portland,  Oregon ; and  Emma  and 
George,  still  under  the  parental  roof. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Goodman  is  a democrat,  believing  firmly  in  the 
principles  of  that  party.  He  and  his  brother  were  the  principal  donators  in  the 
building  and  maintenance  of  the  St.  Anthony's  Catholic  church  at  Drywood,  of 
which  he  is  still  a devout  communicant.  The  period  of  his  residence  in  this  county 
covers  more  than  four  decades,  and  he  has  aided  in,  as  well  as  been  a witness  of, 
the  wonderful  transformation  that  has  occurred,  as  pioneer  conditions  have  given 
way  before  the  onward  march  of  civilization. 


JAMES  W.  MELVILLE. 


In  very  early  times  three  brothers  came  as  pioneers  into  Wisconsin  and 
took  up  land  in  Chippewa  county,  developing  out  of  the  wilderness  productive 
and  profitable  farms.  Gradually  a little  commmunity  grew  up  around  them 
and  this  is  still  known  as  the  Melville  Settlement,  in  honor  of  the  men  who 
founded  it  and  who  were  active  in  inaugurating  and  shaping  its  development. 
Many  representatives  of  the  name  now  own  farms  in  the  settlement,  among 
them  James  W.  Melville,  who  operates  a tract  of  one  hundred  and  forty  acres 
on  section  31,  Lafayette  township,  a property  upon  which  he  is  specializing 
in  raising  apples.  He  was  born  in  Germantown,  Wisconsin,  April  22,  1855, 
and  is  a son  of  John  C.  and  Alice  (Williamson)  Melville.  The  father  came 
to  Chippewa  county  in  1856  with  two  of  his  brothers  and  together  they  settled 
in  the  wilderness  in  Lafayette  township,  founding  here  the  Melville  Settlement. 
From  a tract  of  wild  land,  covered  with  a heavy  growth  of  timber,  John  C. 
Melville  developed  a fine  farm,  engaging  in  agricultural  pursuits  in  this  vicin- 
ity until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1888.  During  the  latter  period  of  his 
life  he  was  a stanch  republican  and  he  was  at  all  times  interested  in  public 
affairs,  taking  an  active  part  in  promoting  the  growth  and  progress  of  the  sec- 
tion named  in  his  honor.  His  wife  was  a native  of  England  and  went  to 
Rochester,  New  York,  when  she  was  seven  years  of  age.  The  paternal  branch 
of  the  family  is  of  Irish  origin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  C.  Melville  became  the 
parents  of  eleven  children:  John,  a farmer  in  this  locality;  Isabella,  the 
deceased  wife  of  William  Paddock;  William,  a farmer  near  Spokane,  Washing- 
ton; James  W.,  of  this  review;  Henry,  who  died  in  Minneapolis;  Albert,  who 
has  passed  away  and  is  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery ; Walter,  superinten- 
dent of  a flour  mill  in  Shanghai.  China;  Thomas,  a farmer  in  the  Melville  Settle- 
ment; Amy,  the  wife  of  Thomas  C.  Roycroft,  also  engaged  in  farming  in  this 


180 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


vicinity;  Edwin,  a ranch  owner  and  mine  inspector  in  Arizona;  and  Elsie,  who 
died  in  1912  and  is  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 

James  W.  Melville  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Chippewa 
county,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years.  He  afterward  assisted 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  at  the  age  of  twenty-five  engaged  in 
farming  independently.  He  bought  a property  which  he  sold  after  twelve 
years,  when  he  inherited  his  present  tract  of  land  from  his  father.  Since  that 
time  he  has  specialized  in  growing  apples  and  has  planted  over  six  thousand 
trees,  having  now  about  five  thousand  in  bearing,  his  orchard  covering  seventy 
acres.  This  is  the  largest  bearing  orchard  in  Wisconsin  and  it  has  proven  very 
profitable,  returning  Mr.  Melville  a gratifying  annual  income. 

In  Eau  Claire,  this  state,  September  21,  1894,  Mr.  Melville  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Helen  Britts,  a daughter  of  Joseph  Britts,  a large  landowner, 
who  has  passed  away.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in  Seattle, 
Washington.  Mrs  Melville  passed  away  May  20,  1907,  and  is  buried  in  the 
Forest  Hill  cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls.  She  left  one  daughter,  who  is  attend- 
ing school.  Mr.  Melville  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  is  a republi- 
can in  his  political  beliefs.  He  takes  an  active  interest  in  the  welfare  and 
development  of  the  section  where  he  has  spent  practically  his  entire  life  and 
his  career  has  added  greatly  to  the  respect  and  esteem  in  which  the  name  has 
long  been  held  in  this  section  of  the  state. 


FRANK  MELVILLE. 

Frank  Melville,  a worthy  native  son  of  Chippewa  county,  is  one  of  the 
representative  citizens  and  prosperous  agriculturists  of  Anson  township,  owning 
two  farms  comprising  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  land  on  sections  19  and 
27.  He  resides  on  the  former  section  and  is  sucessfully  engaged  in  the  raising 
of  Hereford  cattle  and  pure  bred  hogs.  His  birth  occurred  in  Chippewa  Falls 
on  the  15th  of  November,  1868,  his  parents  being  John  and  Mary  (Newman) 
Melville.  The  father,  who  was  the  second  blacksmith  in  Chippewa  Falls  and 
an  esteemed  and  respected  citizen  of  the  community,  passed  away  in  1906,  when 
sixty-eight  years  of  age.  His  remains  were  interred  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 
Our  subject  is  a representative  of  the  family  in  whose  honor  the  Melville  Set- 
tlement was  named. 

Frank  Melville  began  his  education  in  the  Lafayette  school  and  afterward 
attended  the  Eau  Claire  high  school  until  sixteen  years  of  age.  Subsequently 
he  assisted  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  home  farm  in  Lafayette  township 
and  in  1888  located  with  him  on  the  place  where  he  now  resides  and  which  was 
at  that  time  entirely  covered  with  heavy  timber.  When  they  had  cleared  the 
property,  he  began  its  cultivation  and  as  the  years  have  gone  by  has  continued 
the  work  of  improvement  until  his  is  now  one  of  the  most  highly  cultivated 
farms  in  Anson  township.  Mr.  Melville  has  won  success  as  a stockman,  rais- 
ing Hereford  cattle  and  also  pure  bred  hogs.  The  residence,  barn  and  other 
outbuildings  were  erected  by  him  and  stand  as  monuments  to  his  enterprise 
and  industry.  He  is  a director  of  the  Farmers  Produce  Company  and  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


181 


Eagle  Point  Fire  Insurance  Company  and  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  the 
Chippewa  County  Telephone  Company.  He  has  long  been  numbered  among 
the  progressive  and  substantial  citizens  of  his  native  county  and  is  a man  who 
attributes  his  success  to  untiring  industry,  close  application  to  business  and 
strict  sobriety. 

On  the  ist  of  May,  1894,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Melville  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Phillipena  Buske,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  August  Buske, 
who  took  up  their  abode  among  the  pioneer  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and 
are  now  living  retired  in  Cadott.  Unto  our  subject  and  his  wife  have  been 
born  four  children,  as  follows:  John,  who  assists  his  father  in  the  operation 
of  the  home  farm ; Ivy  and  Bessie,  both  at  home ; and  Erma,  who  is  two  years  old. 

Since  age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of  franchise  Mr.  Melville  has  stanchly 
supported  the  men  and  measures  of  the  republican  party.  He  has  served  as  a 
member  of  the  town  board  for  four  years,  making  a creditable  and  commend- 
able record  in  this  connection.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Episcopal 
church,  in  which  he  holds  membership.  He  has  spent  his  entire  life  in  this 
county  and  is  not  only  familiar  with  its  history  from  pioneer  times  to  the  pres- 
ent but  has  also  aided  in  the  work  that  has  made  possible  the  wonderful  trans- 
formation which  has  here  occurred. 


JOSEPH  KOHLER. 

Joseph  Kohler,  engaging  in  mixed  farming  upon  three  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  on  section  34,  Sigel  township,  was  born  in  Austria  and  is  a son 
of  Joseph  and  Anne  (Tomasheck)  Kohler.  The  parents  now  make  their  home 
with  the  subject  of  this  review,  the  father  having  reached  the  age  of  seventy- 
nine  and  the  mother  of  seventy-two  years. 

Joseph  Kohler  was  born  in  Austria,  August  17,  1868.  When  five  years  of 
age  he  came  with  his  parents  to  America,  the  family  first  locating  at  Eau  Claire,  this 
state.  However,  they  remained  there  only  until  that  fall,  when  they  came  to  the 
farm  which  the  father  homesteaded  in  Chippewa  county.  This  was  in  1873,  ar,d 
therefore  Joseph  Kohler  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this 
locality.  After  discontinuing  his  lessons  at  the  early  age  of  twelve  years  he 
worked  in  the  lumber  woods  for  about  five  years  and  then  assisted  his  father 
with  the  work  of  the  farm.  Eventually  the  homestead  came  into  Joseph  Kohler’s 
possession,  and  upon  it  he  has  since  engaged  in  mixed  farming,  principally 
raising  grain.  His  live-stock  interests  are  also  important,  for  he  keeps  on  an 
average  of  thirty-five  head  of  cattle,  five  horses  and  twenty-three  hogs.  He 
has  made  substantial  improvements  upon  the  property,  erecting  a fine  brick 
residence  and  good  farm  buildings,  and  everything  about  the  place  is  in  excel- 
lent condition,  reflecting  his  careful  supervision  and  practical  management. 

On  September  23,  1901,  at  the  Catholic  church  at  Cadott,  Mr.  Kohler  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Kubale,  a daughter  of  Frank  and  Mary 
(Highack)  Kubale,  residing  near  Cadott.  Both  parents  were  born  in  Austria 
and  the  father  came  to  this  country  when  but  six  years  of  age,  while  the  mother 
was  twelve  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kohler  have  six  children:  Martha,  Ernest,  Benjamin, 


182 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mary,  Josie  and  Agnes.  The  family  are  members  of  the  Roman  Catholic 
church  of  Cadott.  In  his  political  beliefs  Mr.  Kohler  is  a democrat.  He  is  a 
man  of  exemplary  character,  well  known  throughout  the  township  for  his 
honesty  and  integrity,  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who 
know  him. 


ERNEST  KLAGES. 

Ernest  Ivlages,  owning  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  23, 
Lafayette  township,  has  spent  his  entire  life  upon  this  property,  having  been 
born  here  March  2,  1882.  He  is  a son  of  Fred  and  Dora  (Schultz)  Klages, 
of  whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this  work  in  connection  with 
the  sketch  of  Herman  Klages. 

Ernest  Klages  acquired  his  education  in  the  Chippewa  county  district  schools 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  early  age  of  fifteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his 
father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead,  aiding  in  the  operation  of  the  property 
and  in  the  erection  of  all  the  buildings  and  improvements.  After  the  father’s 
death  he  inherited  the  homestead  and  here  he  has  since  resided,  carrying  on 
mixed  farming  and  dairying  and  meeting  with  substantial  and  gratifying  success. 

Mr.  Klages  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  a member  of  the  Ger- 
man Lutheran  church.  He  is  a young  man  of  energy  and  ability  and  these 
qualities  have  not  only  brought  him  material  success  but  have  commanded  for 
him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


SILAS  M.  YATES. 

Silas  M.  Yates,  an  enterprising  and  progressive  citizen  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
prominently  connected  with  its  business  interests  as  the  owner  of  the  business 
operated  under  the  name  of  the  Chippewa  Ice  Company,  is  a native  of  this 
county,  born  in  January,  1857.  His  parents  were  Jacob  V.  and  Clarinda  (Brown) 
Yates,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery 
at  Chippewa  Falls. 

Silas  M.  Yates  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen  went  to  work  in 
the  woods  as  a lumber  jack.  After  ten  years  he  had  risen  to  be  foreman  in 
a lumber  camp  and  he  held  this  position  for  a similar  period  of  time,  resigning 
it  in  order  to  form  a partnership  with  a Mr.  Roycraft  in  a lumber  business 
operated  under  the  name  of  Roycraft  & Yates.  This  association  was  dissolved 
after  six  years  and  Mr.  Yates  then  turned  his  attention  to  cruising  lumber.  In 
^904  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  here  established  himself  in  business,  form- 
ing the  Chippewa  Ice  Company,  with  which  he  is  still  connected.  His  enter- 
prise has  had  a remarkable  growth  and  he  now  employs  eight  men  and  supplies 
all  of  the  ice  used  in  the  city. 


SILAS  M.  YATES 


% 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


185 


In  Chippewa  Falls,  in  1881,  Mr.  Yates  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Ella 
Beaver,  a daughter  of  Edward  and  Mary  (Fitch)  Beaver,  both  of  whom  have 
passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Yates  have 
become  the  parents  of  four  children : Delos,  a machinist  in  Milwaukee ; Lorena, 
a graduate  of  the  State  Normal  School;  Pearl,  who  is  engaged  in  teaching  music 
and  drawing  at  Santa  Rosa,  California;  and  Dewitt,  who  is  assisting  his  father. 

Mr.  Yates  joined  the  progressive  party  in  1912  and  he  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows.  He  is  well  known  in  business  circles  as  a farsighted,  capable  and 
reliable  business  man  and  his  success  has  come  as  a natural  result  of  the 
straightforward  and  honorable  methods  of  dealing  to  which  he  has  steadily 
adhered. 


GERALD  O’DONNELL. 


Gerald  O’Donnell,  who  follows  mixed  farming  on  section  27,  Lafayette 
township,  has  been  connected  with  the  agricultural  interests  of  this  locality 
since  1884  and  is  today  a prosperous  and  progressive  farmer,  owning  and 
operating  two  hundred  acres  of  land.  He  was  born  in  Peterboro,  Ontario, 
May  6,  i860,  and  is  a son  of  Patrick  and  Margaret  (Kenn)  O’Donnell,  of 
whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this  work. 

Gerald  O’Donnell  acquired  his  education  in  his  native  province,  laying  aside 
his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  assisted  his  father  with  the 
work  of  the  farm  during  the  summer  months  while  spending  the  winters  in 
the  logging  woods  In  1884  the  family  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  the 
father  purchased  the  farm  which  his  son  Patrick  now  owns.  Upon  this  place 
our  subject  spent  twelve  years  and  then  bought  eighty  acres,  to  which  he  later 
added  until  he  now  owns  two  hundred  acres  on  section  27,  Lafayette  town- 
ship, a property  upon  which  he  has  since  resided.  When  he  located  here  only 
four  acres  were  under  cultivation  but  he  has  since  cleared  a great  deal  of  the 
property  of  timber  and  brush  and  has  now  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
planted  in  various  kinds  of  grain.  He  has  made  substantial  improvements  and 
the  farm  is  today  one  of  the  most  valuable  and  productive  in  that  part  of  the 
county. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  July  19,  1892,  Mr.  O'Donnell  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Ellen  Culbert,  a daughter  of  John  and  Julia  (Cudahy)  Culbert.  Her 
father  was  the  first  settler  in  the  valley  which  now  bears  his  name  and  for  a 
number  of  years  took  a prominent  part  in  public  affairs.  He  died  in  1911  at 
the  age  cf  eighty-six,  having  survived  his  wife  since  1884.  Her  death  occurred 
when  she  was  forty-one  years  of  age  and  both  are  buried  in  the  Eau  Claire 
Catholic  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  O’Donnell  have  become  the  parents  of  eight 
children:  John,  Wren  and  Gerald,  Jr.,  who-  are  assisting  their  father;  Annie 
and  Clayton,  who  are  attending  school;  James  and  Nellie,  at  home;  and  Lenora, 
who  died  at  the  age  of  eleven  years  and  is  buried  in  the  Catholic  cemetery  in 
Chippewa  Falls. 


186 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  O’Donnell  is  a member  of  the  St.  Bridget’s  Roman  Catholic  church  at 
Springfield  Prairie  and  gives  a general  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party, 
although  at  times  he  votes  independently.  He  is  interested  in  the  cause  of 
education  and  has  rendered  the  township  excellent  service  as  a school  director. 
He  does  all  in  his  power  to  further  the  interests  of  the  community  and  is  loyal 
in  his  advocacy  of  all  measures  calculated  to  promote  progress  and  improvement. 


HERMAN  KLAGES. 

On  a well  improved  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  26, 
Lafayette  township,  Herman  Klages  makes  his  home,  and  he  is  justly  accounted 
one  of  the  most  progressive  and  worthy  representatives  of  agricultural  interests 
in  that  locality.  He  was  horn  in  Fond  du  Lac,  Wisconsin,  April  21,  1870,  and 
is  a son  of  Fred  and  Dora  (Schultz)  Klages,  natives  of  Germany,  who  emi- 
grated from  that  country  in  1866  and  settled  in  Fond  du  Lac,  where  they 
remained  for  eight  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  they  moved  to  Chippewa 
county  and  after  a short  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls  settled  upon  a farm,  which 
the  father  improved  and  developed  for  about  five  years.  At  the  end  of  that 
time  he  bought  another  property  in  Lafayette  township  and  with  the  assistance 
of  his  sons  broke  every  foot  of  the  land;  wresting  an  excellent  farm  of  three 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  from  the  wilderness.  For  a number  of  years  he  car- 
ried on  agricultural  pursuits  there  and  he  also  became  prominent  in  public 
affairs,  serving  as  treasurer  of  the  school  board.  He  died  February  25,  1913, 
in  the  seventy-fourth  year  of  his  age,  having  been  killed  in  a gas  explosion. 
He  had  survived  his  wife  since  March  18,  1911,  her  death  having  occurred  when 
she  was  sixty-four.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 

Herman  Klages  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  early  age  of  fourteen.  Two  years  before 
this  he  had  begun  assisting  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  and,  being  the  eldest 
son,  he  gradually  assumed  entire  control.  When  he  was  twenty-eight  years  of 
age  his  father  gave  him  eighty  acres  and  to  this  he  added  another  eighty-acre 
tract,  which  he  purchased,  turning  his  attention  to  mixed  farming  and  dairying 
upon  this  property.  Here  he  has  since  resided  and  upon  it  has  made  excellent 
improvements  in  building  and  equipment,  making  it  one  of  the  finest  farms  in 
this  locality.  He  is  in  addition  a director  in  the  Lafayette  Cooperative  Creamery, 
and  his  business  judgment  is  regarded  as  reliable  and  trustworthy. 

In  Waupaca,  this  state,  June  26,  1907,  Mr.  Klages  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Marie  Viergutz,  a daughter  of  William  and  Augusta  (Ohm)  Viergutz. 
Her  father  was  a native  of  Germany  and  in  that  country  learned  the  miller’s 
trade.  It  was  in  1880  that  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  America  and  first  located 
in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  where  he  engaged  in  the  milling  business  for  a time. 
He  next  made  his  home  in  Clintonville,  this  state,  and  from  there  removed  to 
Bear  Creek,  and  later  to  Marion,  Wisconsin,  where  he  and  his  wife  are  still 
living.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Klages  have  become  the  parents  of  four  children:  Theo- 
dore and  Ruth,  who  are  at  home;  and  Marie  and  Lena,  who  died  in  infancy,  and 
are  buried  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


187 


Mr.  Klages  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs,  serving  at  the  present  time  as  director  of  the  school 
board.  He  is  one  of  the  well  known  agriculturists  of  this  locality  and  is  a careful, 
prudent  man  of  business,  who  enjoys  and  merits  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  the 
entire  community. 


hugh  k.  McDonald. 

Hugh  K.  McDonald  is  one  of  the  oldest  living  settlers  in  Chippewa  county, 
coming  here  in  i860,  or  more  than  a half  century  ago.  He  was  identified  with 
the  lumber  business  for  many  years  and  in  1880  settled  on  his  present  farm  of 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  15,  Anson  township,  where  he  has  since 
carried  on  mixed  farming,  dairying  and  stock-raising.  His  birth  occurred  in 
Glengarry  county,  Ontario,  on  the  16th  of  May,  1842,  his  parents  being  Ken- 
neth and  Elizabeth  (McDonnell)  McDonald,  both  of  whom  are  deceased  and  lie 
buried  in  St.  Raphael’s  cemetery  in  Glengarry  county.  The  father  successfully 
followed  farming  in  Ontario  throughout  his  active  business  career.  The  Mc- 
Donald family  is  of  old  Scotch  origin. 

Hugh  K.  McDonald  attended  school  in  his  native  county  until  fifteen  years 
of  age  and  when  a youth  of  seventeen  crossed  the  border  into  the  United  States 
and  made  his  way  westward  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin.  Here  he  was 
identified  with  the  lumber  business  during  both  the  summer  and  winter  seasons 
from  1870  until  1898.  In  1880  he  settled  on  a tract  of  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  wild  land  in  Anson  township,  undertaking  the  arduous  task  of  clear- 
ing the  property,  which  was  covered  with  brush  and  timber.  His  energy  and 
industry  were  eventually  rewarded  in  the  improved  appearance  of  his  land, 
all  of  which  is  now  in  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  has  been  engaged  in 
mixed  farming  and  dairying  and  also  devotes  considerable  attention  to  stock- 
raising,  winning  well  deserved  success  in  his  several  undertakings.  As  the  years 
have  gone  by  he  has  made  a number  of  substantial  improvements  on  his  property, 
and  in  1885,  at  a cost  of  three  thousand  dollars,  he  erected  what  was  the  largest 
barn  in  the  county.  When  he  first  came  to  Chippewa  county,  the  township  of 
Anson  extended  as  far  as  Ashland  and  comprised  one  of  the  three  townships  in 
the  county.  He  has  not  only  been  a witness  of,  but  has  also  aided  in,  the  work 
of  development  and  progress  here  and  has  long  been  numbered  among  the 
prosperous  and  leading  citizens  of  the  community. 

On  the  13th  of  June,  1876,  in  the  Notre  Dame  church  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
Mr.  McDonald  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Betsy  Ermatinger,  a daughter 
of  George  and  Mary  (McDougal)  Ermatinger,  of  Glengarry,  Ontario.  There 
the  father  died  in  1863  and  was  buried,  being  survived  for  seventeen  years  by 
his  wife,  whose  demise  occurred  in  1880  and  whose  remains  were  interred  in  a 
cemetery  at  Chippewa  Falls.  The  Ermatinger  family  is  of  English  origin  and 
was  represented  in  this  country  as  early  as  1812,  when  its  members  were  engaged 
in  trading  with  the  Indians.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McDonald  have  one  daughter,  Annie 
Laurie,  who  is  at  home  and  is  a music  teacher.  They  also  have  an  adopted 


188 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


daughter  whom  they  have  reared,  Miss  Maud  E.  McDonald,  who  attended  Notre 
Dame  school  and  is  now  living  at  home. 

Since  age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of  franchise  Mr.  McDonald  has  sup- 
ported the  men  and  measures  of  the  democracy,  believing  firmly  in  the  principles 
of  that  party.  He  has  always  declined  public  office,  however,  preferring  to  con- 
centrate his  attention  upon  his  private  business  affairs.  The  family  are  mem- 
bers of  Notre  Dame  Roman  Catholic  church  of  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  McDonald 
is  known  and  honored  for  his  genuine  worth,  for  his  progressiveness  in  citizen- 
ship, his  loyalty  in  friendship  and  his  devotion  to  his  family. 


F.  H.  CUTTING. 

One  of  the  strong  financial  institutions  of  Chippewa  county  is  the  Peoples 
State  Bank  of  Bloomer,  of  which  F.  H.  Cutting  is  the  president.  He  stands 
prominent  among  the  energetic,  enterprising  and  successful  business  men  of 
his  section  of  the  county  and  his  efforts  are  an  element  in  public  prosperity  as 
well.  Aside  from  his  banking  connections  he  is  president  of  the  Cutting-Thomp- 
son  Company  and  his  study  of  business  conditions,  combined  with  his  enterpris- 
ing spirit,  has  wrought  success  in  the  various  fields  in  which  he  has  labored. 
At  the  age  of  seventy-eight  years  he  is  still  active  and  commands  the  respect  and 
high  regard  of  his  fellow  townsmen  because  of  a life  fraught  with  successful 
accomplishment  and  honorable  purpose.  He  was  born  in  Otsego  county,  New 
York,  March  15,  1835,  a son  of  John  F.  Cutting,  a native  of  the  Empire  state, 
who  was  a saddle  and  harness  maker  in  early  life.  Coming  to  Wisconsin  in 
1848,  the  father  settled  in  Dane  county,  where  he  remained  for  many  years, 
after  which  he  became  a resident  of  Buffalo  county.  Three  years  were  passed 
there,  after  which  he  took  up  his  abode  at  the  Red  Cedar  river,  where  he  died  at 
the  age  of  sixty-eight  years.  In  his  latter  life  he  followed  farming  and  his  days, 
well  spent,  brought  to  him  a comfortable  competence  and  an  honorable  name. 
He  married  Sallie  Chapin,  a native  of  New  York,  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  four  children. 

F.  H.  Cutting  was  educated  in  the  common  schools  but  his  opportunities  in 
that  direction  were  meager,  as  he  never  had  the  chance  to  attend  after  he 
reached  the  age  of  thirteen  years.  He  is  numbered  among  the  honored  pioneer 
settlers  of  the  state,  having  been  an  interested  witness  of  the  changes  and  events 
which  have  occurred  in  Wisconsin  through  the  past  sixty-five  years.  The  only 
boat  on  Lake  Superior  at  the  time  of  his  arrival  was  the  Algonquin.  Business 
along  the  other  lines  was  scarcely  more  developed  than  the  shipping  industry 
and  everywhere  were  to  be  seen  evidences  of  frontier  life  with  its  usual  hard- 
ships and  privations.  Mr.  Cutting’s  youth  was  largely  a period  of  earnest  and 
persistent  toil.  After  leaving  school  he  worked  on  the  farm  for  his  father  and 
later  began  farming  for  himself  in  Dane  county,  where  he  remained  until  1862, 
when  at  the  age  of  twenty-seven  years  he  came  to  Chippewa  county.  There 
were  only  three  houses  in  Bloomer  at  that  time  and  throughout  the  entire 
county  the  work  of  civilization  and  development  seemed  scarcely  begun  Mr. 
Cutting  first  engaged  in  farming  here  on  a tract  of  land  twelve  miles  west  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


189 


Bloomer,  residing  thereon  until  August,  1875.  1°  the  meantime  his  patriotic 

spirit  prompted  his  enlistment  for  service  in  the  Civil  war  and  in  1864  he  joined 
Company  A of  the  Fiftieth  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry  under  command  of 
Captain  John  C.  Spooner.  With  his  regiment  he  went  to  the  front  and  was 
mustered  out  in  1866.  In  August,  1875,  he  removed  to  Bloomer,  where  he 
established  a drug  business,  but  eventually  extended  the  scope  of  his  activities 
to  include  general  merchandising.  When  he  took  up  his  abode  at  Bloomer  there 
was  only  one  little  store  in  the  town  and  Mr.  Cutting’s  business  is  today  the 
oldest  in  existence  in  Bloomer.  The  firm  carries  a general  line  of  goods,  having 
a well  appointed  department  store  occupying  three  rooms.  They  are  now  erecting 
a large  warehouse  in  the  rear  which  will  be  forty  by  sixty-six  feet,  and  they  are 
also  building  a two-story  structure,  seventy-eight  by  one  hundred  and  thirty- 
two  feet,  one  room  of  which,  thirty-three  by  fifty-six  feet,  is  used  and  owned 
by  the  bank.  The  remainder  will  be  used  by  Mr.  Cutting’s  son  in  the  conduct  of 
a machinery  and  implement  business.  When  completed  this  will  be  the  finest 
building  in  the  town.  Mr.  Cutting  at  all  times  has  manifested  a progressive 
spirit  and  his  undertakings  have  done  much  to  promote  public  progress  as  well 
as  advance  individual  success. 

Mr.  Cutting  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Abigail  Griffith,  a native  of 
Wales,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children:  Ellen,  the  eldest,  who  is 
deceased;  William;  and  Emeline.  The  former,  a resident  of  Bloomer,  is  pro- 
prietor of  a farm  implement  business  of  gratifying  proportions.  He  married 
Ora  Huntington,  and  their  only  child,  Hazel,  died  at  the  age  of  five  years. 
Emeline  married  Mr.  Thompson,  who  is  Mr.  Cutting’s  business  associate  in  the 
firm  of  Cutting  & Thompson. 

In  politics  Mr.  Cutting  is  an  earnest  republican,  believing  firmly  in  the 
principles  of  the  party.  While  on  the  farm  he  was  town  treasurer  and  for 
fifteen  years  he  filled  the  office  of  president  of  the  village.  He  has  also  been 
chairman  of  the  county  board  for  about  seven  years  and  has  ever  been  faithful, 
capable  and  loyal  in  the  discharge  of  his  political  duties.  He  holds  membership 
with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  with  N.  P.  Lyon  Post,  No.  147, 
G.  A.  R.,  of  which  he  is  now  commander.  The  family  attend  the  Congrega- 
tional church  and  Mr.  Cutting  has  long  cooperated  in  all  the  movements  which 
tend  to  advance  the  social,  political,  intellectual  and  moral  welfare  of  his  com- 
munity. His  life  has  been  well  spent  and  the  honors  that  have  been  accorded 
him  have  been  well  and  worthily  won. 


DANIEL  BUCHANAN,  Jr. 

Since  1877  Daniel  Buchanan,  Jr.,  has  been  engaged  in  the  general  practice  of 
law  in  Chippewa  Falls,  and  since  that  time  has  made  steady  progress  in  his 
profession,  being  today  recognized  as  one  of  the  leading  lawyers  in  this  section 
of  the  state.  He  served  the  city  for  three  years  as  its  city  attorney,  an  office 
in  which  he  demonstrated  not  only  his  legal  ability  but  his  energv  and  public 
spirit  as  well.  He  was  born  in  Fort  Winnebago,  Wisconsin,  July  11,  1851,  and 
is  a son  of  Daniel  and  Mary  (Shaw)  Buchanan,  both  of  whom  have  passed 


190 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


away.  The  father  was  one  of  the  prominent  grain  buyers  of  Columbia  county 
and  also  engaged  in  farming  there  until  1884  when  he  moved  to  Ritzville,  Wash- 
ington, where  he  died  in  1903.  He  had  survived  his  wife  only  two  years,  her 
death  having  occurred  in  December,  1901. 

Daniel  Buchanan,  Jr.,  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Columbia 
county  and  later  entered  the  law  department  of  the  State  University  at  Madison, 
Wisconsin,  receiving  his  degree  from  that  institution  in  1872.  In  the  following 
year  he  went  to  Eau  Claire  county,  where  he  associated  himself  with  the  firm 
of  Bartlett  & Hayden,  continuing  thus  until  1877,  when  he  moved  to  Chippewa 
Falls,  where  he  has  since  remained.  The  years  have  brought  him  prominence 
in  his  profession  and  a practice  that  has  steadily  increased  in  volume  and  im- 
portance, for  he  has  become  known  as  a strong,  able  and  forceful  practitioner. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Buchanan  married  Miss  Mary  M.  Waugh,  a daugh- 
ter of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Alexander  Waugh,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away,  the 
former  dying  in  March,  1877,  and  the  latter  in  July,  1882.  They  are  buried  in 
Greenville.  Pennsylvania.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Buchanan  became  the  parents  of  three 
children,  all  of  whom  died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  Buchanan  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  lodge  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs,  taking  an  active  interest  in  community  affairs  and  cooperating 
heartily  in  all  projects  to  promote  the  advancement  and  growth  of  the  city. 
During  the  thirty-six  years  of  his.  residence  here  he  has  become  widely  and 
favorably  known  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  with  whom 
business  or  social  relations  have  brought  him  into  contact. 


PETER  MEINEN. 


Peter  Meinen,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  land  seven  and  one-quarter  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer,  in 
Auburn  township,  was  born  in  Tilden  township,  Chippewa  county,  and  is  a son 
of  Nicholas  Meinen,  a native  of  Germany.  After  emigrating  to  America  the 
father  settled  in  Chippewa  Falls  in  very  early  times,  taking  up  his  residence 
here  before  the  city  of  Chippewa  Falls  was  founded.  He  at  first  turned  his 
attention  to  anything  which  would  bring  him  an  income  but  eventually  engaged 
in  farming,  an  occupation  in  which  he  was  active  for  many  years.  He  has  now 
retired  from  active  life  and  lives  in  the  town  of  Tilden,  having  reached  the  age 
of  eighty.  He  married  Miss  Magdalena  Meyer,  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  eight  children,  two  of  whom  have  passed  away. 

Peter  Meinen  acquired  his  education  in  the  Catholic  parochial  school  of 
Tilden,  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  worked  upon  the  homestead  until  his 
marriage.  He  then  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  seven  and  one- 
quarter  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer,  and  upon  this  property  has  since  resided, 
steadily  carrying  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development  along 
progressive  and  modern  lines.  He  has  erected  a comfortable  residence,  good 
barns  and  outbuildings  and  lias  made  the  place  a model  property  in  every  par- 
ticular, reflecting  everywhere  his.  careful  supervision  and  practical  labor. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


191 


Mr.  Meinen  married  Miss  Annie  Stoffel,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  eight  children,  Lidwina,  Philomena,  Susanna,  Alphonsina,  Leona,  Marie,  Gil- 
bert and  Henrietta.  Mr.  Meinen  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church 
and  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Knights.  He  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  and  is  serving  as  a member  of  the  school 
board,  proving  capable  and  conscientious  in  the  discharge  of  his  duties.  He  is 
numbered  among  the  substantial  farmers  and  progressive  men  of  his  locality 
and  holds  the  esteem  and  regard  of  his  neighbors  as  a man  whose  life  has  been 
honorable  and  upright  in  all  its  relations. 


JOHN  G.  ACHESON. 

John  G.  Acheson  owns  a fine  farm  in  Eagle  Point  township,  eight  miles 
southeast  of  Bloomer  on  the  Chippewa  road  and  is  a native  of  Ireland,  born  there 
in  1872.  His  father,  James  Acheson,  was  also  a native  of  Ireland  and  emigrated 
to  the  United  States  about  the  year  of  1878  locating  in  southern  Wisconsin, 
where  he  has  since  engaged  in  farming,  having  now  reached  the  age  of  seventy. 
He  married  in  Ireland,  Miss  Reid,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eight 
children. 

John  G.  Acheson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Outagamie 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  followed  farming  and  carpentry  until 
1908.  In  that  year  he  purchased  from  Frank  Ludwig  the  farm  in  Eagle  Point 
township  where  he  has  since  resided.  He  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of 
choice  land  and  has  made  substantial  improvements  upon  it,  his  farm  being  today 
a valuable  and  attractive  property. 

Mr.  Acheson  married  Miss  Rebecca  McElroy  and  they  have  four  children : 
Russell,  Donald,  Hazel,  and  Gladys.  Mr.  Acheson  votes  independently  and  has 
held  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  rendering  the  township  excel- 
lent service  as  assessor  and  treasurer.  In  1912  he  was  elected  school  clerk  and 
reelected  in  1913.  He  merits  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  know  him 
and  is  numbered  among  the  most  substantial  citizens  of  Chippewa  county. 


JOHN  MATSCHE. 

John  Matsche,  numbered  among  the  successful  and  enterprising  dairy  farmers 
of  Arthur  township,  is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  eighty  acres 
on  section  19,  township  30,  range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Austria,  December 
26,  1863,  his  parents  being  Frank  and  Mary  Matsche,  who  passed  away  when 
he  was  still  but  a child.  John  Matsche  lived  with  a brother  until  twelve  years 
of  age  and  then  began  earning  his  own  livelihood. 

In  1888,  when  a young  man  of  twenty-five  years,  he  emigrated  to  the  United 
States,  for  he  had  heard  many  favorable  reports  of  the  opportunities  of  the 
new  world  and  desired  to  take  advantage  of  them.  During  the  first  several 
years  of  his  residence  in  this  country  he  was  employed  in  a glucose  factory 


192 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


at  .Marshalltown,  Iowa,  and  also  worked  in  a railroad  roundhouse.  In  1898 
he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  purchased  eighty  acres  of  wild 
land  comprising  the  north  half  of  the  southeast  quarter  of  section  19,  town- 
ship 30,  range  6.  The  place  was  entirely  unimproved  and  much  arduous  labor 
was  necessary  before  the  land  was  ready  for  cultivation.  Mr.  Matsche  has 
resided  thereon  to  the  present  time  and  now  has  excellent  buildings,  while  in 
the  conduct  of  his  interests  as  a dairy  farmer  he  has  met  with  gratifying  and 
well  deserved  success. 

On  the  5th  of  November,  1888,  Mr.  Matsche  was  united  in  marriage . to 
Miss  Theresa  Miksch,  who  was  born  in  Germany  on  the  29th  of  December,  1869. 
Unto  them  have  been  born  nine  children,  as  follows:  Mary,  who  is  the  wife  of 
John  Scheidler  and  resides  in  Chippewa  county;  Clara,  who  gave  her  hand  in 
marriage  to  Fred  Roberts,  of  Arthur  township;  John,  a resident  of  Ellendale, 
North  Dakota;  Lena,  who  is  employed  in  Chippewa  Falls;  and  Frankie,  Annie, 
Alois,  Katrina  and  Theresa,  all  at  home. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Matsche  is  a republican,  loyally  supporting  the 
men  and  measures  of  that  party  at  the  polls.  In  religious  faith  he  and  his  fam- 
ily are  Catholics  and  devout  communicants  of  St.  Anthony’s  church  of  Drywood. 
He  is  familiar  with  and  speaks  four  languages — Norwegian,  Bohemian,  Ger- 
man and  English.  He  has  never  felt  any  occasion  to  regret  his  determination 
to  come  to  the  United  States,  for  here  he  has  found  the  business  opportunities 
which  he  sought  and  in  their  improvement  has  won  prosperity. 


LEONARD  GLADWELL. 

Agricultural  interests  of  Chippewa  county  find  a progressive  and  worthy 
representative  in  Leonard  Gladwell,  who  since  1900  has  operated  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  fine  land  on  section  18,  Wheaton  township.  Mr.  Gladwell 
has  resided  in  this  county  since  1861  but  is  a native  of  New  York,  born  Decem- 
ber 24,  1852,  his  parents  being  Thomas  and  Charlotte  (Reed)  Gladwell.  The 
father  died  in  1874  and  is  survived  by  his  wife,  who  makes  her  home  with  the 
subject  of  this  review,  having  reached  the  age  of  ninety-two  years. 

Leonard  Gladwell  came  to  Wisconsin  with  his  parents  when  he  was  still  an 
infant  and  he  spent  his  early  childhood  in  Whitewater,  this  state.  In  1861  he 
came  to  Chippewa  county  and  here  completed  his  education,  laying  aside  his 
books  at  the  age  of  eighteen.  After  leaving  school  he  began  working  in  the 
lumber  woods  and  sawmills  and  he  continued  thus  in  the  employ  of  others  for 
twenty-seven  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  purchased  land  in  Chippewa 
county  and  for  some  time  thereafter  spent  his  winters  in  the  woods  and  his 
summers  upon  his  farm.  Since  1900  he  has  confined  his  attention  to  agricultural 
pursuits  and  has  met  with  gratifying  success  in  this  line  of  work.  He  owns 
eighty  acres  lying  on  section  18,  Wheaton  township,  and  operates  eighty  acres 
adjoining  and  has  made  excellent  improvements  upon  it,  carrying  forward  the 
work  of  its  cultivation  along  practical  and  modern  lines. 

In  Chippewa  county  on  August  22,  1875,  Mr.  Gladwell  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Lydia  Eldred,  a daughter  of  John  and  Ellen  (Kane)  Eldred, 


I 


MR.  AND  MRS.  LEONARD  GLADWELL 


MR.  AND  MRS.  THOMAS  GLADWELL 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


197 


both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Gladwell  became  the  parents  of  eight  children:  Fred,  who  died  at  the  age 
of  thirty-four  years;  Charles,  who  lives  in  the  state  of  Washington;  John,  a 
fireman  on  the  railroad  operated  by  the  Rice  Lake  Logging  Company ; Albert, 
who  is  assisting  his  father ; Lee,  engaged  in  farming  in  Canada ; Laura,  who  died 
at  the  age  of  one  year ; George,  assisting  his  father  on  the  farm ; and  Lomie, 
at  home.  Mr.  Gladwell  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party 
but  is  not  active  in  public  affairs,  preferring  to  concentrate  his  attention  upon 
his  agricultural  interests,  which  are  capably  conducted  and  have  brought  him 
well  deserved  success. 


JOHN  L.  EDER. 

Chippewa  county  numbers  among  its  worthy  and  valued  native  sons  John  L. 
Eder,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  two  hundred  acres  three  and  one- 
half  miles  west  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  in  1883  and  is  a son  of  Joe  Eder, 
a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  four  years 
of  age.  He  located  with  his  parents  in  Iowa  and  from  that  state  moved  to 
Chippewa  county,  where  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming  in  Tilden  town- 
ship. There  he  has  resided  since  that  time,  being  now  in  the  sixty-third  year 
of  his  age.  He  married  Miss  Louise  Zweifellhofer  and  they  have  four  chil- 
dren, Mrs.  John  Prince,  John  L.,  Mrs.  Anna  Schroeder  and  William. 

John  L.  Eder  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  in  a business  college  at  St.  Paul.  After  laying  aside  his  books 
he  worked  for  his  father  on  the  homestead  but  following  his  marriage  settled 
upon  the  property  in  Bloomer  township  which  is  now  his  place  of  residence.  He 
owns  a tract  of  two  hundred  acres  with  excellent  buildings  and  other  improve- 
ments. He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  has  met  with  well 
deserved  success  in  both  fields. 

In  1909  Mr.  Eder  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Blanche  Snyder  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  two  children,  Izetta  and  Caroline.  Mr.  Eder  is  a 
member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the 
Catholic  Knights.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and 
is  progressive  in  matters  of  citizenship  although  not  active  as  an  office  seeker. 
He  is  widely  known  throughout  his  native  county  as  a representative  citizen 
and  he  commands  the  confidence  and  respect  of  the  entire  community. 


JOHN  MAHONY. 

A worthy  and  progressive  representative  of  agricultural  interests  of  Chip- 
pewa county  is  John  Mahony,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  one 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  19,  Lafayette  township,  a property  upon 
which  he  has  resided  since  1887.  He  was  born  in  Schull,  County  Cork,  Ireland, 
November  1,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Catherine  (Farrington)  Mahony, 

voi.  n— 1 1 


198 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


who  went  from  Ireland  by  way  of  New  York  city  to  Ontario  county,  New 
York.  After  residing  there  for  one  year  they  moved  to  Eau,  Claire,  this  state, 
and  from  there  came  to  Chippewa  county,  where  they  settled  on  the  farm  now 
owned  by  the  subject  of  this  review.  The  land  was  at  that  time  only  partially 
cultivated  and  John  Mahony,  Sr.,  with  the  assistance  of  his  sons  cleared  the 
remainder,  making  it  a valuable  and  productive  property.  He  died  on  the  3d 
of  August,  1912,  at  the  age  of  eighty,  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery. 
His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  with  the  subject  of  this  review. 

John  Mahony  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
country,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  assisted 
his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  in  1887  came  to  America,  locating 
in  Chippewa  county.  When  the  remainder  of  the  family  settled  here  the  father 
and  son  carried  on  the  operation  of  the  homestead  and  after  the  former’s  death 
John  Mahony  of  this  review  inherited  the  property,  which  he  has  owned 
ever  since.  He  assisted  in  making  all  of  the  improvements  upon  it  and  its  excel- 
lent condition  at  present  is  largely  due  to  his  well  directed  and  practical  labor. 

Mr.  Mahony  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  views.  Success  has  followed  him  at  every  step  as  the  result  of  his 
industry,  ability  and  perseverance  until  now  he  is  numbered  among  the  repre- 
sentative farmers  and  progressive  citizens  of  this  county. 


SMITH  H.  WRIGHT. 

Smith  H.  Wright,  successfully  engaged  in  dairy  farming,  is  the  owner  of 
a tract  of  land  embracing  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  36,  Sigel  town- 
ship. He  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  more  than  three  decades, 
coming  here  from  Spencer,  Massachusetts,  in  1882.  His  birth  occurred  in  George- 
town, Connecticut,  in  October,  1867,  his  parents  being  James  and  Mary  Wright. 
The  mother  passed  away  when  our  subject  was  still  a small  child,  but  the 
father  yet  survives  at  the  venerable  age  of  eighty-four  years  and  makes  his 
home  with  his  son  Smith.  Mrs.  Mary  Wright  is  buried  in  Connecticut. 

Smith  H.  Wright  attended  school  in  Massachusetts  until  fifteen  years  of 
age  and  subsequently  worked  in  a factory  for  about  twenty  years.  On  the 
expiration  of  that  period  he  took  possession  of  the  farm  in  Chippewa  county 
which  he  now  operates,  the  property  comprising  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
on  section  36,  Sigel  township.  He  was  one  of  the  first  in  the  township  to  own 
registered  Holstein-Friesian  cows.  He  carries  on  dairy  farming  with  good 
success,  keeping  about  four  horses,  twenty-five  head  of  cattle  and  seven  hogs. 
He  erected  the  residence  and  other  buildings  which  adorn  the  property,  and 
in  the  conduct  of  his  agricultural  interests  he  has  won  a gratifying  and  well 
merited  measure  of  prosperity. 

In  iqot,  in  Sigel  township,  Mr.  Wright  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Emily  Buetow,  a daughter  of  Carl  and  Hannah  Buetow.  The  father  died  in 
1897  and  lies  buried  in  Sigel  township,  but  the  mother  still  survives  and  resides 
with  her  son  Levi.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wright  have  three  children:  Ada,  Norma 
and  Arthur,  all  at  home. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


199 


Since  age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of  franchise  Mr.  W right  has  sup- 
ported the  men  and  measures  of  the  republican  party,  while  fraternally  he  is 
identified  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  has  an  extensive  circle 
of  friends  throughout  the  county  in  which  he  has  resided  during  the  greater 
part  of  his  life,  and  he  is  worthy  of  the  confidence  and  trust  which  are  uni- 
formly given  him. 


JOHN  AND  FRED  MEIER. 

The  town  of  Bloomer  finds  enterprising  and  progressive  representatives  of 
its  business  interests  in  John  and  Fred  Meier  who  since  1906  have  been  partners 
in  the  operation  of  a profitable  general  store.  They  are  natives  of  Chippewa 
county,  the  former  born  on  the  5th  of  October,  1876,  and  the  latter  in  1880, 
sons  of  Tohn  Meier,  a native  of  Switzerland  who  came  to  the  United  States 
as  a young  man  and  settled  in  Minnesota  where  he  engaged  in  farming.  He 
later  moved  to  this  county  and  here  followed  agricultural  pursuits  until  1911 
when  he  went  to  Idaho  where  he  now  resides.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Bichler 
of  Minnesota  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children:  Mary,  John,  Gust, 
Elizabeth,  Frederick,  Charles,  Robert,  Edward,  Antone,  Oscar,  and  one  child 
who  died  in  infancy. 

John  and  Fred  Meier  acquired  their  education  in  the  public  schools  of  their 
native  county  and  after  laying  aside  their  books  both  young  men  engaged  in 
farming  for  some  time.  Afterward  Fred  was  for  four  years  a clerk  in  the 
employ  of  Cutting  & Thompson  but  resigned  this  position  in  1906  when  he  joined 
his  brother  in  the  establishment  of  the  mercantile  enterprise  which  they  now 
conduct.  They  carry  a full  line  of  men’s  and  women’s  furnishings,  groceries, 
etc.,  and  enjoy  a representative  and  growing  trade,  accorded  to  them  in  recogni- 
tion of  their  fair  and  honorable  business  methods  and  their  reasonable  prices. 

John  Meier  married  Miss  Lenora  Proue  of  Chippewa  Falls,  and  they  have 
become  the  parents  of  six  children,  Lenora,  Elsie,  Rose,  William,  Ellen  and 
Paul.  The  brothers  give  their  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and 
Fred  served  for  two  years  on  the  village  board.  He  is  identified  fraternally 
with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  John  is  a devout  member  of 
the  United  Brethren  church.  Both  are  progressive  and  reliable  business  men 
and  they  enjoy  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  in  any  way  associated 
with  them. 


LEVI  BUETOW. 

Levi  Buetow,  who  devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  mixed  farming,  is  the 
owner  of  a tract  of  land  embracing  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  sections 
25  and  26,  Sigel  township.  He  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county  and  in  fact  was 
born  in  the  same  house  in  which  he  now  resides,  his  natal  day  being  September 
19,  1871.  His  parents  were  Carl  and  Hannah  (Betcher)  Buetow.  The  father. 


200 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


who  passed  away  in  1897,  lies  buried  in  Sigel  township,  but  the  mother  still 
survives  and  makes  her  home  with  her  son  Levi. 

In  the  acquirement  of  an  education  Levi  Buetow  attended  school  in  Chippewa 
county  until  fourteen  years  of  age  and  subsequently  assisted  his  father  in  the 
work  of  the  home  farm  until  the  latter’s  demise.  The  property  came  into  his 
possession  at  that  time  and  he  has  since  continuously  devoted  his  attention  to 
its  operations.  He  keeps  about  five  horses,  twenty  cattle  and  five  hogs  and 
in  both  his  farming  and  live  stock  interests  has  won  a well  merited  measure  of 
success.  The  residence  and  other  buildings  on  the  place  were  erected  by  him 
and  stand  as  monuments  to  his  enterprise  and  thrift.  He  has  conducted  his 
affairs  according  to  modern  and  up-to-date  methods,  has  been  careful  and  sys- 
tematic in  the  management  of  his  interests  and  today  is  numbered  among  the 
successful  and  progressive  farmers  of  Sigel  township. 

On  the  28th  of  March,  1895,  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Buetow  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Emily  Stark,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Fred  Stark,  both 
of  whom  are  deceased  and  lie  buried  in  Germany.  Our  subject  and  his  wife 
have  four  children,  namely:  Benjamin,  Ella,  Gladys  and  Elmer,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Buetow  casts  his  ballot  in  support  of  the  men  and  measures  of  the  repub- 
lican party  and  has  served  his  fellow  townsmen  in  positions  of  public  trust. 
He  has  held  the  position  of  township  assessor  for  four  years  and  for  six  years 
acted  as  chairman  of  the  school  board,  ably  discharging  his  duties  in  both 
connections.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in  the  Evan- 
gelical church.  He  has  resided  in  this  county  from  his  birth  to  the  present  time, 
and  the  fact  that  those  who  esteem  him  most  are  those  who  have  known  him 
from  boyhood  is  an  indication  that  his  life  record  has  ever  been  in  harmony 
with  the  principles  of  honorable  and  upright  manhood. 


MAURICE  A.  POZNANSKI. 

Among  the  most  progressive,  enterprising  and  capable  of  the  native  sons 
of  Chippewa  Falls  is  numbered  Maurice  A.  Poznanski,  to  whose  initiative  spirit 
the  city  owes  the  .foundation  of  some  of  its  most  important  business  institutions 
and  to  whose  activity  and  industry  is  due  their  development  and  upbuilding. 
He  is  prominently  identified  with  various  business  and  corporate  interests  here, 
among  his  connections  of  this  character  being  the  Northwood  Furniture  Com- 
pany, of  which  he  is  president.  A spirit  of  enterprise’  and  progress  has  actuated 
him  in  all  the  activities  of  his  career  and  has  brought  him  today  to  a place  of 
power  and  prominence  in  his  native  city. 

Mr.  Poznanski  was  born  January  1,  1872,  and  is  a son  of  Edward  and 
Leah  (Pozner)  Poznanski,  of  whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this 
work.  He  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  later  attended  the  Wayland  University  and  Milwaukee  Academy  in 
Milwaukee.  He  returned  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  on  account  of  his  father’s 
ill  health  he  took  charge  of  the  latter’s  business.  This  was  a large  retail  dry- 
goods  store  and  for  twenty-two  years  thereafter  Maurice  Poznanski  controlled 
the  affairs  of  this  concern,  making  it  one  of  the  largest  and  most  important 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


201 


mercantile  houses  in  the  city.  He  disposed  of  his  interest  in  it  in  ign.  During 
the  twenty-two  years  his  interests  extended  to  many  other  fields,  as  a record 
of  his  accomplishments  along  business  lines  plainly  shows.  He  organized  and 
developed  the  Chippewa  Glove  Company,  of  which  he  was  president  for  many 
years,  the  Handmade  Shoe  Company,  of  which  he  was  vice  president,  and  the 
Northwood  Furniture  Company,  of  which  he  is  now  president.  To  the  affairs 
of  this  latter  institution  he  gives  a great  deal  of  his  time  and  attention  and  he  has 
directed  its  development  along  constructive  and  modern  lines  so  that  its  present 
success  is  largely  the  result  of  his  energy  and  activity. 

In  New  York  city,  on  the  16th  of  July,  1909,  Mr.  Poznanski  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Lillian  C.  Manwaring,  a'  daughter  of  Thomas  and  Margaret 
Manwaring,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away,  the  former  being  buried  in  Hay- 
ward, Wisconsin,  and  the  latter  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Poznanski 
make  their  home  in  the  old  family  residence,  which  was  erected  by  Edward 
Poznanski  in  early  times,  and  they  are  well  known  in  social  circles  of  the  city. 

Mr.  Poznanski  has  at  all  times  been  interested  in  the  growth  and  develop- 
ment of  Chippewa  Falls  and  is  active  in  the  promotion  of  those  projects  looking 
toward  municipal  advancement.  He  was  chairman  of  the  acreage  committee  of 
the  Progressive  League  and  was  a leading  factor  in  securing  for  the  city  the 
sugar  beet  factory,  which  is  now  one  of  the  most  prominent  and  important 
industrial  concerns  in  Chippewa  county.  He  also  aided  in  bringing  to  the  city 
a number  of  other  industrial  and  commercial  concerns  and  formed  one  of  the 
five  members  of  the  original  council  of  the  league,  of  which  he  acted  as  president 
for  some  time.  During  the  course  of  his  business  career  he  has  acquired  a 
great  deal  of  valuable  city  property  through  judicious  investment  and  is  the 
owner  of  the  Metropolitan  building,  one  of  the  largest  office  structures  in  the 
city.  Fraternally  he  is  connected  with  the  Masonic  lodge  and  chapter  and  the 
Benevolent  Protective  Order  of  Elks.  He  also  belongs  to  the  Eau  Claire  Club, 
of  which  he  was  one  of  the  first  non-resident  members.  He  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  has  been  alderman  of  the  city  for  two 
years,  his  vote  and  influence  during  this  time  having  been  always  on  the  side 
of  right,  reform  and  progress.  A resident  of  Chippewa  Falls  from  his  birth 
to  the  present  time,  he  is  well  known  here  and  his  integrity  of  character,  his 
business  ability  and  his  progressive  citizenship  have  gained  him  the  high  esteem 
and  regard  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


OSCAR  STELTER. 

Oscar  Stelter,  president  and  general  manager  of  O.  F.  Stelter  & Company, 
dealers  in  hay,  grain  and  potatoes  in  Bloomer,  is  a native  of  Wisconsin,  born  in 
Waushara  county  in  18S3.  He  is  a son  of  Otto  Stelter,  who  was  born  in  Ger- 
many and  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  nine  years  of  age,  going 
directly  to  Waushara  county,  where  he  grew  to  manhood  and  where  he  is  today 
a prosperous  farmer.  He  married  Miss  Paulina  Wangrine  and  they  became  the 
parents  of  nine  children. 


202 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Oscar  Stelter  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  assisted  his  father  for  a time  with  the  work 
of  the  homestead.  In  1907  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  settling  in  Bloomer 
joined  his  brother  William  in  the  organization  of  the  firm  of  O.  F.  Stelter 
& Company,  of  which  he  is  now  president  and  general  manager.  They  own  a 
large  elevator  and  deal  in  all  kinds  of  grain,  hay,  flour,  coal,  potatoes,  straw 
and  wool,  besides  cement  and  lime.  The  warehouse  and  the  elevator  are  located 
near  the  Northwestern  Railroad  tracks,  and  there  are  branches  at  Jim  Falls  and 
Cobban.  At  the  former  all  kinds  of  farm  implements  are  carried  as  well  as 
grain.  Mr.  Stelter  gives  practically  all  of  his  time  and  attention  to  the  develop- 
ment of  this  business  and  its  prosperous  condition  at  the  present  is  the  direct 
result  of  his  energy  and  executive  ability. 

Mr.  Stelter  married  Miss  Esther  Rosenbrook  of  Bloomer,  and  they  are 
the  parents  of  a son,  Harold.  Mr.  Stelter  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran 
church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  interested  in  the  growth  and 
development  of  the  county  and  always  ready  to  cooperate  in  the  support  of 
progressive  public  movements.  His  ability  is  widely  recognized  in  business 
circles  and  his  integrity  and  fairness  have  gained  him  the  esteem  and  confidence 
of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


OWEN  F.  STERZIK. 

Energy,  ability,  experience  and  controlled  ambition  have  formed  for  Owen 
F.  Sterzik  the  basis  of  a substantial  and  desirable  success  and  have  brought  him 
today  into  important  relations  with  business  interests  of  Chippewa  Falls,  where 
he  is  doing  capable  and  farsighted  work  as  superintendent  of  the  Northwood 
Furniture  Company.  He  was  born  at  Big  Rapids,  .Michigan,  September  15, 
1871,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Slamo)  Sterzik,  both  of  German 
extraction.  The  father  was  for  thirty  years  a resident  of  Big  Rapids,  where  he 
engaged  in  the  carpentering  and  contracting  business,  his  territory  extending 
all  over  the  state  of  Michigan.  During  the  early  part  of  the  Civil  war  he  lived 
in  New  Orleans,  but  being  in  sympathy  with  the  Union  cause,  he  went  to  France 
but  returning  by  way  of  the  northern  states,  joined  the  Union  army  in  Michigan. 
He  died  there  in  1886  and  his  wife  survived  him  many  years,  passing  away  in 
1907.  Both  are  buried  in  the  Big  Rapids  cemetery. 

Owen  F.  Sterzik  acquired  his  education  in  the  country  schools  around  Big 
Rapids  and  later  attended  the  Ferris  Business  College,  the  principal  of  which 
institution  is  now  the  governor  of  Michigan.  After  laying  aside  his  books  Mr. 
Sterzik  learned  the  hand  carver’s  trade  in  a furniture  factory  in  Big  Rapids, 
remaining  in  this  connection  for  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he 
moved  to  Edinburg,  Indiana,  where  he  took  charge  of  the  plant  of  the  Edin- 
burg Cabinet  Company.  At  the  end  of  six  years  he  moved  to  Madison,  Indiana, 
and  there  built  a piano  factory,  of  which  was  part  owner  and  general  manager 
until  1906,  when  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls.  Here  he  became  manager  of  the 
plant  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Furniture  Company  and  after  two  years  moved  to 
Galax,  Virginia,  where  he  took  charge  of  the  plant  of  the  Galax  Furniture  Com- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


203 


pany.  Returning  to  Chippewa  Falls  at  the  end  of  two  years,  he  became  con- 
nected with  the  Northwood  Furniture  Company,  and  since  that  time  has  acted 
as  superintendent  of  that  concern,  which  owes  a great  deal  of  its  success  to  his 
excellent  administrative  ability  and  his  thorough  knowledge  of  the  business. 

In  Big  Rapids,  Michigan,  on  the  9th  of  April,  1891,  Mr.  Sterzik  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Nora  Clifford,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Richard  Clifford, 
the  former  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war  who  now  resides  in  Big  Rapids.  His  wife 
has  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sterzik  have  become  the  parents  of  six  children: 
Glenn,  who  is  foreman  of  the  Northwood  Furniture  Company;  Earl,  who  is 
employed  by  the  Jenkins  Automobile  Company;  Russell,  also  connected  with 
the  Northwood  Furniture  Company;  and  Stella,  Hazel  and  Raymond  D.,  all  of 
whom  are  attending  school.  The  family  residence  is  at  No.  417  Mansfield 
street,  Chippewa  Falls,  and  Mr.  Sterzik  owns  also  a farm  of  forty  acres  in 
Michigan  which  he  uses  as  a summer  home. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Sterzik  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  lodge,  the  Knights  of 
Pythias  and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  gives  his  political  alle- 
giance to  the  democratic  party,  and  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  church.  He 
is  a progressive  and  public-spirited  citizen  and  a reliable,  enterprising  and  ener- 
getic business  man  and  he  stands  high  in  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who 
have  had  either  business  or  social  relations  with  him. 


LENARD  BOWE. 

Lenard  Bowe  is  one  of  the  foremost  agriculturists  of  Tilden  township, 
Chippewa  county,  where  he  owns  a valuable  farm  of  seven  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  on  sections  14,  23  and  9.  A native  of  this  county,  he  was  born  on  Sep- 
tember 3,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  Nicholas  and  Maria  (Mayer)  Bowe.  The  father 
came  to  this  section  in  1856  and  settled  on  the  land  which  our  subject  now  owns. 
At  that  time  it  was  practically  covered  with  tall  timber,  which  the  father 
cleared,  later  bringing  the  land  under  cultivation  and  greatly  improving  it.  While 
still  in  Germany  he  had  been  a soldier  in  the  Prussian  army  and  often  referred 
to  chapters  of  his  military  life.  He  was  popular  with  all  who  knew  him  and  who 
appreciated  in  him  the  sterling  qualities  of  energy,  industry  and  integrity.  He 
passed  away  April  8,  1913,  at  the  age  of  nearly  ninety  years,  and  with  him 
passed  one  of  the  most  venerable  figures  in  Chippewa  county.  His  wife  had 
preceded  him  to  the  Great  Beyond  in  1895  and  both  found  their  last  resting  place 
in  St.  Peter’s  cemetery. 

Lenard  Bowe  received  his  education  in  the  German  St.  Peter’s  Catholic 
school,  which  he  left  at  the  age  of  thirteen  years  in  order  to  have  more  time  to 
assist  his  father  on  the  farm.  Later  he  worked  for  five  years  in  the  bush  but, 
returning  at  the  end  of  that  time,  again  assisted  his  father.  He  then  began 
independently  by  operating  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  which  his  father 
had  given  him,  and  to  this  amount  he  has  gradually  added  until  today  he  owns 
a magnificent  farm  of  seven  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  much  of  which  is  in  a 
high  state  of  cultivation.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  stock-raising, 
employing  modern  and  scientific  methods  and  keeping  as  many  as  fifty  head  of 


204 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


cattle  on  the  place.  Ten  horses  are  needed  to  carry  on  farm  operations  and  he 
also  has  other  stock.  Beside  his  valuable  property  in  Chippewa  county,  Mr. 
Bowe  owns  three  hundred  a,nd  twenty  acres  in  Canada. 

On  August  9,  1886,  in  St.  Peter’s  Catholic  church  at  Tilden,  Mr.  Bowe  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Margarete  Kaiser,  a daughter  of  John  and  Appolonia 
(Eslinger)  Kaiser,  the  former  one  of  the  pioneers  of  Fond  du  Lac  county.  Both 
are  deceased  and  buried  in  the  Cadott  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bowe  became  the 
parents  of  thirteen  children:  Philomena,  who  died  at  the  age  of  twelve  years 

in  September,  1902;  John  P.,  who  passed  away  at  the  age  of  twenty-three,  Jan- 
uary 8,  1913;  Peter  J.,  a farmer  of  Bloomer  township;  Herman,  assisting  his 
father  in  the  operation  of  the  farm ; Carl  W.  and  Gilbert,  who  are  also  so  en- 
gaged; Ella  J.,  at  home;  Rosa  A.,  at  home;  Michael,  Bertha,  Alfred  and  Ma- 
thilda, attending  school;  and  Maria.  Both  Phiiomena  and  John  P.  Bowe  found 
their  last  resting  place  in  St.  Peter’s  cemetery  at  Tilden. 

In  his  political  affiliations  Mr.  Bowe  is  a democrat  and  takes  a laudable  in- 
terest in  all  matters  of  public  interest.  He  has  served  as  township  supervisor,  his 
efficiency  giving  great  satisfaction  to  his  constituents,  and  is  at  present  road 
commissioner.  He  and  his  family  are  members  of  the  Catholic  church,  in  the 
work  of  which  they  take  an  active  and  helpful  interest.  Largely  through  his 
own  efforts  Mr.  Bowe  has  become  one  of  the  most  substantial  agriculturists  of 
Tilden  township,  his  farm  being  one  of  the  most  beautiful  in  his  locality.  He 
has  erected  a large  and  handsome  residence,  modernly  equipped,  and  his  barp§, 
are  substantial  and  in  every  way  up-to-date.  The  whole  appearance  of  the 
property  bespeaks  indefatigable  labor  and  good  judgment,  and  such  success  as 
Mr.  Bowe  has  attained  is  highly  merited. 


MAGNUS  FIRTH. 

Magnus  Firth,  discharging  the  duties  of  steward  of  the  Wisconsin  State 
Home  for  the  Feeble-Minded  in  an  intelligent  and  capable  way,  was  born  in  the 
province  of  Quebec,  Canada,  in  1846.  He  is  a son  of  Magnus  and  Mary  (Car- 
michael) Firth,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away. 

Magnus  Firth  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
province  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen,  worked  on  farms 
and  in  the  lumber  woods  until  he  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1869.  He  located  in 
that  year  in  Chippewa  county  and  for  about  five  years  thereafter  worked  at 
lumbering,  after  which  he  purchased  a farm  of  his  own  which  he  improved  and 
operated  for  about  twenty  years,  making  it  during  that  time  a well  improved 
and  valuable  property.  He  eventually  turned  his  attention  to  politics  and  was 
elected  county  clerk,  continuing  in  this  office  for  eight  years,  after  which  he  was 
made  supervisor  of  assessments.  At  the  end  of  two  and  one-half  years  in  that 
office  he  became  cashier  of  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Boyd  and  held  that  im- 
portant position  for  two  years,  after  which  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls,  becom- 
ing steward  in  the  State  Home  for  the  Feeble-Minded,  a position  which  he  has 
since  held.  He  discharges  his  duties  with  a conscientious  sense  of  responsibility 
and  has  made  an  enviable  record  in  a difficult  position,  his  work  meeting  with  the 


MAGNUS  FIRTH 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


207 


approval  not  only  of  those  who  are  connected  with  the  institution  but  of  the 
community  at  large. 

In  Chippewa  county,  in  December,  1874,  Mr.  Firth  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Kate  Blair,  a daughter  of  Hugh  Blair,  who  was  a resident  of  New 
Brunswick.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Firth  became  the  parents  of  four  children : Edgar 
A.,  of  whom  further  mention  is  made  elsewhere  in  this  work;  Minnie  E.,  the 
wife  of  A.  H.  Lytte,  who  died  in  March,  1913,  and  is  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls; 
Earl  I.,  a resident  of  Seattle,  Washington;  and  Walter  C.,  who  died  in  infancy 
and  is  buried  in  the  Eagle  Point  cemetery.  Mrs.  Firth  passed  away  in  May, 
1886,  and  in  November,  1887,  Mr.  Firth  was  again  married,  his  second  union 
being*  with  Miss  Martha  Blair,  his  present  wife. 

Mr.  Firth  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  served  for  nine  years 
as  chairman  of  town  of  Cleveland.  He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic 
lodge  and  the  commandery  and  is  a member  of  the  Congregational  church.  He 
has  been  found  capable,  conscientious  and  reliable  in  the  discharge  of  the  duties 
of  his  office  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  associated 
with  him. 


H.  E.  McWITHEY. 

H.  E.  McWithev  is  one  of  the  early  settlers  in  Chippewa  county  and  since 
pioneer  times  has  taken  an  active  part  in  the  agricultural  development  of  this 
section  of  the  state,  evolving  out  of  the  wilderness  a productive  and  profitable 
farm,  upon  eighty  acres  of  which  he  is  now  living  in  retirement.  He  is  also 
entitled  to  representation  in  this  volume  as  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war. 

Mr.  McWithey  was  born  in  the  state  of  New  York,  August  5,  1838,  and  is 
a son  of  Telle  Gilbert  McWithey,  a native  of  Vermont.  The  father  came  to 
Wisconsin  in  1849,  spending  five  years  in  Dane  county.  At  the  end  of  that  time 
he  moved  to  Iowa  but  after  two  years  returned  to  Wisconsin,  settling  in  Monroe 
county,  where  his  death  occurred.  His  wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Betsy 
Bliton. 

H.  E.  McWithey  came  to  Wisconsin  about  fifty-two  years  ago  and  has  re- 
mained a continuous  resident  of  the  state  since  that  time  with  the  exception  of' 
his  period  of  service  during  the  Civil  war.  Almost  immediately  after  his  arrival 
in  1861  he  enlisted  in  Company  A,  Third  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Cavalry,  and  served 
for  fifteen  months  and  then  received  an  honorable  discharge  for  disability.  Dur- 
ing his  active  service  he  was  stationed  on  the  border  between  Missouri  and  Kansas 
and  did  duty  as  quartermaster  and  commissary.  After  his  arrival  in  this  state 
Mr.  McWithey  spent  some  time  in  Barron  county,  and  then  moved  to  Chippewa 
county,  where  he  has  since  resided.  He  first  located  upon  property  one  mile  west 
of  his  present  place,  then  moved  to  Bloomer  and  afterward  to  the  farm  he 
now  occupies,  which  is  situated  five  miles  west  of  Bloomer.  This  originally 
comprised  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  and  upon  it  he  carried  forward  the  work 
of  development  year  by  year,  erecting  fine  barns  and  outbuildings  and  neglecting 
nothing  which  would  add  to  the  attractive  appearance  or  the  value  of  the  place. 
During  his.  active  life  he  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying  but  of  late 


208 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


years  has  lived  retired  upon  eighty  acres  of  his  homestead,  the  remainder  being 
in  possession  of  his  son. 

Mr.  McWithey  married  Miss  Cordelia  Smith  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  four  children:  John,  of  Edmonton,  Alberta,  who  married  Miss  Lillian  Bas- 
sett, by  whom  he  has  three  children,  Hazel,  Fred  and  William;  Fannie,  who  mar- 
ried Martin  Randall,  residing  near  Ridgeland;  Judson,  who  has  passed  away; 
and  Stephen,  who  married  Carrie  Snyder,  by  whom  he  has  four  children,  Marion, 
Helen,  Fannie  and  Ruth. 

Mr.  .McWithey  is  a member  of  the  Congregational  church  and  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows  and  belongs  to  the  local  post  of  the  Grand  Army  of  the  Republic, 
thus  keeping  in  touch  with  his  comrades  of  fifty  years  ago.  His  long  period  of 
residence  in  Chippewa  county  has  brought  him  widespread  respect  and  esteem 
and  he  is  recognized  today  as  one  of  the  pioneer  residents  of  this  locality,  a 
capable  business  man  and  a loyal  and  public-spirited  citizen. 


WILLIAM  D.  HUTCHINSON. 

Among  the  capable,  reliable  and  enterprising  business  men  of  Chippewa 
Falls,  whose  well  directed  activities  have  proved  potent  factors  in  the  general 
commercial  development  of  the  city,  is  numbered  William  I).  Hutchinson,  secre- 
tary and  treasurer  and  general  manager  of  the  Chippewa  Valley  Mercantile 
Company.  He  was  born  in  Chicago,  Illinois,  August  9,  1856,  and  is  a son  of 
T.  S.  and  Elizabeth  (Dixon)  Hutchinson,  the  former  of  whom  was  for  many 
years  a captain  on  the  Great  Lakes.  He  died  in  [905,  at  the  age  of  seventy-seven, 
and  is  buried  at  Menominee,  Michigan.  The  family  is  of  Scotch  origin. 

William  D.  Hutchinson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his 
native  city  and  after  the  Chicago  fire  of  1871  laid  aside  his  books  and  entered 
the  employ  of  the  Kirby  Carpenter  & Lumber  Company,  at  Menominee,  Michi- 
gan, a connection  which  he  maintained  until  1889.  In  that  year  he  established 
himself  in  the  retail  grocery  business  and  at  the  end  of  six  years  became  identi- 
fied with  Penderthy-Cook  & Company,  wholesale  grocers  with  whom  he 
continued  from  1895  to  1903,  proving  himself  during  this  time  a farsighted,  capa- 
ble and  reliable  business  man.  He  resigned  his  position  in  the  latter  year 
and  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  became  identified  with  the  Chippewa 
Valley  Mercantile  Company  as  secretary,  treasurer  and  general  manager.  In 
these  important  offices  he  has  displayed  excellent  business  and  administrative 
ability  and  to  him  is  due  in  large  measure  the  credit  for  the  later  development 
of  the  concern  along  practical  and  progressive  lines.  A man  of  energy,  resource 
and  ability,  he  has  made  these  qualities  the  basis  of  a great  deal  of  farsighted 
and  constructive  work  and  has  won  for  himself  a most  desirable  place  in  busi- 
ness circles  of  the  city. 

At  Menominee,  Michigan,  in  December,  1882,  Mr.  Hutchinson  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Etta  Blorn,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  Blom,  the 
former  a well  known  furniture  dealer  in  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hutchinson 
have  two  sons : Thomas,  who  is  manager  of  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Com- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


209 


pany  at  Hoquiam,  Washington;  and  William  B.,  who  is  working  in  the  lumber 
woods  for  the  Wilson  Brothers  Logging  Company. 

Mr.  Hutchinson  attends  the  Presbyterian  church  and  fraternally  is  connected 
with  the  Masonic  order,  being  a member  of  Menominee  Lodge,  No.  269,  of 
Michigan;  Chippewa  Chapter,  No.  46,  R.  A.  M.;  and  Tancred  Commandery, 
No.  27,  K.  T.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  intelligently  inter- 
ested in  public  affairs  without  being  active  as  an  office  seeker.  Much  credit  is 
due  him  for  the  excellent  work  he  has  accomplished  in  Chippewa  Falls,  for 
he  has  not  only  aided  in  the  development  of  an  important  commercial  concern 
but  has  gained  a place  among  the  substantial  business  men  of  the  city,  com- 
manding the  respect  and  confidence  of  all  with  whom  he  is  brought  in  contact. 


CHARLES  KELLER. 

Charles  Keller,  one  of  the  able  and  progressive  young  business  men  of 
Bloomer,  is  superintendent  of  the  Bloomer  Machine  Works,  an  institution  which 
he  assisted  in  founding  and  in  the  development  of  which  he  has  borne  an  active 
and  important  part.  He  is  a native  of  Sweden,  born  in  1873,  a son  of  S.  A. 
Keller,  who  is  engaged  in  the  blacksmithing  business  in  his  native  country.  S.  A. 
Keller  married  Miss  Rose  Hollenberg  and  four  children  were  born  to  their  union. 

Charles  Keller  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Sweden  and 
after  laying  aside  his  books  studied  mechanics,  displaying  an  unusual  natural 
aptitude  for  this  kind  of  work.  In  1892  he  came  to  the  United  States,  settling 
first  in  Minneapolis,  Minnesota,  where  he  remained  for  seven  years.  At  the 
end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Eau  Claire  and  at  the  end  of  six  months  to  Bloomer 
where  he  has  since  resided.  He  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  the  Bloomer 
Machine  Works  of  which  he  is  now  superintendent  and  his  energy  and  mechan- 
ical ability  have  been  important  factors  in  its  success.  He  patented  the  Kelly 
engine,  now  manufactured  by  the  concern,  and  has  made  many  other  important 
contributions  towards  the  upbuilding  of  the  enterprise. 

Mr.  Keller  married  Miss  Christiana  Paulus  and  they  have  four  children : 
Florence,  Helen,  Carlos  and  Leonard.  Mr.  Keller  is  identified  with  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  repub- 
lican party.  His  attention  is  however  largely  concentrated  upon  his  business  affairs 
in  which  he  has  met  with  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 


A.  H.  HUNT. 

A.  H.  Hunt  living  in  retirement  at  Eagleton  was  born  in  New  York  state 
on  the  10th  of  March,  1845,  and  is  a son  of  C.  A.  Hunt,  also  a native  of  the 
Empire  state.  The  father  engaged  in  lumbering  and  farming  during  his  early 
life  and  was  afterward  for  twenty-five  years  a hotel  keeper  in  New  York  and 
Ohio.  He  died  in  the  latter  state  when  he  was  seventy-nine  years  of  age.  His 


210 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Roxina  Harris,  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  three  sons  and  two  daughters. 

A.  H.  Hunt  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Allegany  county, 
New  York,  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  endeavored  to  enlist  in  the  Union 
army  for  service  in  the  Civil  war.  He  was,  however,  below  the  required  age 
and  never  went  to  the  front,  although  he  was  hired  by  the  government  as  a 
team  driver.  In  this  capacity  he  followed  General  Sherman  through  the  latter’s 
campaigns  and  at  the  close  of  the  war  came  to  Wisconsin  settling  in  Eau  Claire 
where  he  remained  for  ten  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  the 
vicinity  of  Chippewa  Falls  purchasing  a farm  northeast  of  the  city  whereon  he 
engaged  in  dairying  and  also  in  lumbering  for  some  time.  He  still  retains  forty 
acres  of  this  property  but  has  rented  it  out  and  has  taken  up  his  residence  in 
Eagleton  where  he  lives  retired. 

Mr.  Hunt  married  Miss  Zilpah  Trott,  a native  of  Maine  and  a daughter  of 
E.  C.  Trott,  a carpenter  and  ship  builder.  The  father  was  among  the  early 
settlers  in  Chippewa  county,  taking  up  his  residence  here  in  1865.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Hunt  have  five  children:  Harry;  Florence,  who  married  Henry  Rhein- 
gans,  by  whom  she  has  three  children,  Bernice,  Ruth,  and  Hazel;  Isabelle,  who 
married  F.  P.  Rheingans ; Ina ; and  Earl. 

Mr.  Hunt  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  was  for 
six  terms  chairman  of  the  town  board.  He  has  held  several  positions  of  public 
trust  and  is  known  also  as  the  organizer  and  builder  of  the  Eagleton  Creamery. 
Through  his  own  labor,  enterprise  and  good  management  he  has  become  the 
owner  of  an  excellent  property  and  has  won  a period  of  rest  and  retirement  in 
his  declining  years. 


WILLIAM  GREWE. 

William  Grewe,  owner  of  a dray  line  in  Cadott,  was  born  in  Germany, 
November  15,  1873,  a son  °f  August  and  Fredericka  (Lubeke)  Grewe,  natives 
of  Germany,  both  born  in  1848.  The  father  emigrated  to  America  in  1892,  and 
settled  in  Wisconsin,  buying  land  in  Sigel  township,  this  county,  which  he  still 
operates.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  three  children,  William, 
Ferdinand  and  Emil. 

William  Grewe  attended  public  school  in  Germany  until  he  was  fourteen  years 
of  age  and  afterward  worked  upon  the  farm  until  he  was  eighteen.  He  accom- 
panied his  parents  to  America  in  1892  and  for  some  time  thereafter  worked  in 
the  lumber  woods  during  the  winters  and  as  a farm  laborer  in  the  summer 
months.  After  his  marriage  in  1897  he  lived  for  four  years  in  Cadott,  at  the  end 
of  that  time  buying  a farm  which  he  still  owns  and  where  he  lived  for  four 
years,  after  which  time  he  again  moved  to  Cadott,  turning  his  attention  to  business 
pursuits.  He  purchased  a dray  line  in  the  town  and  under  his  able  management 
this  has  become  a very  profitable  enterprise.  Mr.  Grewe  also  acts  as  agent  for 
the  Chippewa  Brewing  Company  at  Cadott  and  has  some  valuable  holdings  in 
land,  owning  a comfortable  residence  in  the  town  and  eighty  acres  of  farming 
land  on  section  24,  township  27,  range  7. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


211 


In  Sigel  township,  December  8,  1897,  Mr.  Grewe  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Katharine  Pfaff,  a daughter  of  Adam  and  Marie  Pfaff,  the  former  a re- 
tired farmer,  living  in  Cadott.  Air.  and  Mrs.  Grewe  are  the  parents  of  two 
children,  Clara  and  Frieda.  Mr.  Grewe  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran 
church  and  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  His  personal  characteristics  have 
gained  him  the  warm  regard  and  friendship  of  many,  while  in  business  circles 
he  has  attained  that  success  which  comes  only  as  a result  of  merit  and  ability. 


PAUL  HARTMAN. 

Paul  Hartman,  a prosperous  farmer  of  Auburn  township,  owning  a fine 
property  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa  county, 
born  in  1868.  His  father,  George  Hartman,  was  a native  of  Germany  and  came 
to  the  United  States  when  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  was  among  the 
pioneers  in  the  settlement  of  Chippewa  county  and  has  followed  farming  here 
since  that  time,  having  now  reached  the  age  of  seventy-seven.  He  married 
Miss  Catherine  Rander  and  they  became  the  parents  of  ten  children. 

Paul  Hartman  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  agricultural  pursuits, 
buying  the  farm  which  he  now  owns.  He  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  it 
and  has  made  other  substantial  improvements,  the  property  reflecting  every- 
where the  many  years  of  care  and  labor  he  has  bestowed  upon  it. 

Mr.  Hartman  married  Miss  Theresa  Dachel  and  they  have  six  children,  Dora, 
Sebastian,  Herman,  Agnes,  Robert  and  William.  Mr.  Hartman  is  a member  of 
the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Knights. 
He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  and  for  the  past  four- 
teen years  has  served  as  school  district  clerk,  discharging  his  duties  in  a capable, 
businesslike  and  conscientious  way.  His  worth  received  additional  recognition 
last  spring  when  he  was  elected  town  clerk.  In  all  official  and  business  dealings 
he  is  straightforward  and  reliable  and  he  enjoys  to  the  fullest  extent  the  con- 
fidence and  good-will  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


A.  J.  MARTIN. 

A.  J.  Martin,  one  of  the  most  prominent  and  enterprising  of  the  younger 
generation  of  business  men  of  Bloomer,  is  well  known  as  a general  contractor 
and  as  the  owner  of  the  business  operated  under  the  name  of  the  A.  J.  Martin 
Lumber  Company.  He  is  a native  of  Bloomer,  born  in  1882,  a son  of  Henry 
Martin,  whose  birth  occurred  in  Wayne  township,  Washington  county,  this  state. 
The  father  was  for  forty-five  years  engaged  in  the  blacksmithing  business  and 
for  the  past  forty  years  has  lived  in  Bloomer  which  counts  him  among  its  best 
known  pioneers.  In  1902  he  abandoned  blacksmithing  and  entered  the  employ 
of  W.  G.  Cutting,  remaining  with  them  five  years.  In  1908  he  associated  him- 
self with  his  son  in  the  contracting  and  lumber  business.  His  wife,  who  was  in 


212 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


her  maidenhood  Miss  Dora  Schroeder,  was  born  in  Germany  and  died  in  Bloomer 
in  1908.  They  were  the  parents  of  ten  children,  seven  of  whom  are  still  living. 

A.  J.  Martin  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Bloomer  and  after 
laying  aside  his  books  worked  at  blacksmithing  and  carpentering  until  1905  when 
he  turned  his  attention, to  the  contracting  business.  He  is  the  largest  contractor 
in  the  town  and  lias  been  connected  with  a great  deal  of  important  work,  having 
erected  practically  all  of  the  large  buildings  in  Bloomer.  He  has  now  the  con- 
tracts for  the  construction  of  the  Peoples  State  Bank  building  and  the  Cutting 
building,  besides  seven  residences  in  town  and  a schoolhouse  in  the  country. 
In  connection  with  his  contracting  business  he  operates  a lumber  yard  under  the 
name  of  the  A.  J.  Martin  Lumber  Company  and  he  deals  in  all  kinds  of  building 
material,  having  on  hand  everything  necessary  for  the  construction  of  a build- 
ing from  cellar  to  chimney.  In  Bloomer  lie  is  regarded  as  a progressive,  energetic 
and  capable  business  man  whose  success  is  the  natural  result  of  his  own  well 
directed  efforts. 

Mr.  Martin  married  Miss  Ella  Schnoor  who  was  born  in  the  vicinity  of 
Bloomer.  He  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  interested  in  the  wel- 
fare and  growth  of  the  city  although  he  never  seeks  public  office.  Fraternally 
he  is  identified  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  he  is  a devout  mem- 
ber of  the  German  Lutheran  church.  Although  still  a young  man  he  has  already 
won  gratifying  success  in  business  and  the  future  undoubtedly  holds  for  him 
continued  advancement  along  his  chosen  line. 


ROBERT  A.  LANG. 

Energy,  persevering  labor  and  well  directed  effort  have  been  the  basis  of  the 
success  of  Robert  A.  Lang,  and  have  brought  him  today  to  a position  among  the 
large  landowners  and  prosperous  farmers  of  his  locality.  He  owns  one  thou- 
sand acres  on  sections  22,  26  and  27,  Lafayette  township,  the  property  having 
been  originally  in  the  possession  of  the  Badger  State  Lumber  Company.  Mr. 
Lang  was  born  in  Rock  county,  this  state,  March  22,  1855,  and  is  a son  of  Henry 
W.  and  Annice  ( Ross ) Lang,  the  former  of  whom  was  for  many  years  a ma- 
chinery manufacturer  in  Ottawa,  Ontario.  He  died  in  1901.  having  survived 
his  wife  since  1884.  She  was  laid  to  rest  in  Minneapolis,  Minnesota,  and  her 
husband  is  buried  near  Pembroke,  Ontario. 

Robert  A.  Lang  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Ottawa,  lay- 
ing aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  seventeen.  He  afterward  served  an  apprentice- 
ship as  a machinist  and  then  learned  engineering,  working  at  this  profession  on 
boats  on  the  Ottawa  river  for  several  years.  After  he  came  to  the  United  States 
he  worked  as  a hydraulic  engineer,  doing  bridge  construction  work  and  building 
other  river  improvements,  such  as  dams  and  reservoirs  for  various  well  known 
lumber  concerns  operating  on  the  Chippewa,  St.  Croix  and  Wisconsin  rivers. 
He  is  still  active  in  this  line  of  work,  concentrating  his  attention  upon  the  develop- 
ment of  water  power  for  electrical  purposes.  Some  time  ago  Mr.  Lang  bought 
from  the  Badger  State  Lumber  Company  one  thousand  acres  in  Lafayette  town- 
ship and  he  is  today  one  of  the  large  landowners  in  that  section  of  the  county. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


213 


His  holdings  include  Lake  Hallie  and  Electric  Park,  the  latter  being  rented  by 
Mr.  Lang  to  the  Chippewa  Valley  Light  & Power  Company.  Mr.  Lang  gives  a 
great  deal  of  time  to  his  farming  interests  and  his  property,  which  is  known  as 
the  Lang  Lake  farm,  is  one  of  the  finest  and  best  equipped  in  this  section  of  the 
state. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  February  14,  1883,  Mr.  Lang  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Harriet  Ross,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Joel  Ross,  the  former 
an  old  resident  of  Eau  Claire.  Both  have  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Lang 
have  three  children : Margaret,  who  is  a graduate  of  Downer  College,  Milwau- 
kee, and  who  is  teaching  in  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire ; Hiram,  a student  in 
the  State  University  of  Wisconsin  ; and  Paul,  who  is  assisting  his  father  and 
attending  the  high  school  of  Eau  Claire. 

Mr.  Lang  is  a thirty-second  degree  Mason  and  belongs  to  the  blue  lodge, 
chapter,  consistory  and  shrine.  He  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is 
interested  in  public  affairs,  having  served  for  one  term  as  a member  of  the  state 
legislature,  representing  the  first  district  of  Eau  Claire.  Although  one  of  the 
later  arrivals  in  Chippewa  county,  he  has  become  widely  and  favorably  known 
here,  his  business  integrity,  progressive  spirit  and  personal  characteristics  hav- 
ing gained  him  the  esteem  and  respect  of  many  friends. 


J.  B.  THERIAULT. 

Throughout  a period  of  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls  dating  from  1867,  J.  B. 
Theriault  has  witnessed  a great  deal  of  the  development  of  the  city  and  has  made 
his  progressive  citizenship  a valuable  asset  in  its  growth.  For  the  past  twenty- 
two  vears  he  has  been  prominently  identified  with  industrial  interests  as  a manu- 
facturer of  red  brick  and  his  plant  at  Tilden,  Wisconsin,  is  one  of  the  largest 
enterprises  of  its  kind  in  that  part  of  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  Theriault  was  born 
at  Cacouna,  Temiscouata  county,  Quebec,  December  26,  1846,  and  is  a son  of 
Charles  and  Celeste  (Roy)  Theriault,  both  of  French  Canadian  origin.  The 
father  was  a pioneer  settler  in  that  part  of  Quebec  province  and  engaged  in 
farming  there  for  a number  of  years.  Both  parents  have  passed  away  and  are 
buried  near  Thetford  Mine,  Quebec. 

J.  B.  Theriault  was  reared  in  his  native  province  and  acquired  his  education 
in  a little  log  schoolhouse.  He  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  and  then 
assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  for  three  years.  At  the  end  of 
that  time  he  moved  to  Ottawa,  Ontario,  and  there  worked  in  the  lumber  camps 
on  Gatineau  river  for  two  years  but  in  1867  moved  to  Michigan,  settling  in  Bay 
City,  where  he  worked  in  a sawmill.  I11  October  of  the  same  year  he  moved  to 
Chippewa  county  and  for  a time  worked  in  the  lumber  camps  in  the  winters  and 
in  the  sawmills  during  the  summers,  spending  seven  years  in  this  way.  For 
three  years  thereafter  he  worked  at  anything  which  would  bring  him  an  income 
and  then,  seeking  to  better  his  fortune,  moved  to  California,  where,  however,  he 
met  with  indifferent  success.  Returning  to  Chippewa  county,  he  engaged  in  the 
liquor  business  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  was  thus  engaged  for  several  years, 
after  which  he  established  himself  as  a red  brick  manufacturer.  For  the  past 


214 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


twenty-two  years  he  has  engaged  extensively  in  this  line  of  work,  each  year  mark- 
ing an  increase  in  his  prosperity  and  a substantial  growth  in  his  business.  He 
controls  today  a large  and  important  patronage  and  his  factory  in  Tilden,  Wiscon- 
sin, supplies  an  extensive  trade.  The  offices  are  located  at  No.  503  North  Bridge 
street  and  the  business  transacted  there  is  constantly  increasing’  in  volume  and 
importance. 

Mr.  Theriault  married  in  Ste.  Marie,  Beauce,  Quebec,  October  15,  1877, 
Miss  Demerise  Hammann,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Frank  Ilammann, 
both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Theriault  have  become  the  parents  of  a daughter,  Marie  L.,  who  is  a graduate 
of  the  Milwaukee  Conservatory  of  Music.  Mr.  Theriault  is  a democrat  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  in  1893  served  as  city  auditor,  discharging  his  duties  capably 
and  conscientiously.  He  is  well  known  to  the  citizens  of  Chippewa  Falls,  among 
whom  he  has  resided  for  forty-six  years,  and  is  respected  alike  in  business  and 
social  circles  as  an  upright  man  and  a progressive  citizen. 


EUGENE  P.  ELLENSON,  M.  D. 

Dr.  Eugene  P.  Ellenson  is  one  of  the  leading  surgeons  in  Chippewa  Falls 
and  since  1892  has  specialized  in  this  branch  of  his  profession  here,  securing  a 
large,  representative  and  important  patronage,  which  has  been  accorded  to  him 
in  recognition  of  his  superior  merit  and  ability.  He  was  born  in  La  Crosse, 
Wisconsin,  April  29,  1869,  and  is  a son  of  Eugene  J.  and  Eva  M.  (Meier)  Ellen- 
son, the  former  for  many  years  a traveling  salesman.  Both  now  make  their 
home  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin. 

Dr.  Eugene  P.  Ellenson  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  Eau  Claire 
public  schools  and  afterward  entered  Beloit  College,  where  he  studied  for  three 
years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  entered  Rush  Medical  College  in  Chicago  and 
from  that  institution  received  his  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1892.  The  day  after  his 
graduation  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  entering  upon  the  practice  of  his  pro- 
fession, in  which  he  has  since  attained  a position  of  prominence  and  distinction. 
Dr.  Ellenson  specializes  in  surgery,  devoting  practically  all  of  his  time  to  this 
branch  of  his  work.  He  has  performed  many  difficult  operations  most  success- 
fully and  his  reputation  has  steadily  grown  as  his  skill  and  ability  have  become 
more  generally  recognized.  In  addition  to  his  private  practice  he  is  surgeon  of 
St.  Joseph’s  Hospital  and  surgeon  for  the  Soo  Line  and  he  keeps  in  touch  with 
the  trend  of  modern  thought  in  his  profession  through  his  membership  in  the 
county  and  state  medical  societies  and  the  American  Medical  Association. 

On  the  30th  of  May,  1890,  in  St.  Paul,  Minnesota,  Dr.  Ellenson  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Rose  L.  Argard,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Martin  Argard, 
the  former  commissioner  of  immigration  for  the  state  of  Wisconsin  for  many 
years.  Both  were  old-time  residents  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  they 
passed  away.  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Ellenson  have  become  the  parents  of  a son,  Eugene 
A.,  who  is  studying  medicine  at  the  State  University  at  Madison.  The  family 
residence  is  at  No.  421  West  Willow  street  and  is  one  of  the  attractive  homes 
in  that  locality. 


DR.  EUGENE  F.  ELLENSON 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


217 


Dr.  Ellenson  gives  his  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  but  is  not  active 
politically,  preferring  to  devote  all  of  his  attention  to  his  professional  duties. 
During  the  twenty-one  years  he  has  engaged  in  practice  in  Chippewa  Falls  his 
powers  have  continually  developed  and  he  is  today  one  of  the  leading  repre- 
sentatives of  his  profession  in  the  city  and  vicinity. 


THOMAS  ROYCRAFT. 

Thomas  Roycraft,  widely  and  favorably  known  in  Chippewa  county,  where 
he  has  resided  since  1868,  is  prominently  connected  with  agricultural  interests 
here,  owning  and  operating  three  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  land  on  section 
32,  Lafayette  township.  He  was  born  in  Schull,  County  Cork,  Ireland,  Jan- 
uary 30,  1852,  his  parents  being  John  and  Mary  (Camier)  Roycraft.  The 
father  came  with  his  family  to  America  in  1863  and  after  a short  stay  in  New 
York  city  moved  to  North  Adams,  Massachusetts,  where  he  worked  as  a car- 
penter on  the  Hoosaic  tunnel.  On  the  15th  of  April,  1865,  the  family  went  by 
way  of  Milwaukee  to  the  vicinity  of  Oshkosh,  where  the  father  rented  a farm, 
developing  and  operating  this  for  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he 
moved  to  Eau  Claire  and  engaged  as  a carpenter  in  the  employ  of  the  Eau 
Claire  Lumber  Company.  Four  years  later  he  purchased  land  in  Chippewa 
county,  buying  a quarter  of  section  29,  Lafayette  township.  He  found  this  a 
wilderness  covered  with  a heavy  growth  of  timber  and  the  entire  family  aided  in 
felling  the  trees  and  in  putting  the  land  in  condition  for  cultivation.  As  the 
years  passed  he  became  a prosperous  and  progressive  farmer  and  gained  the 
esteem  and  confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens.  He  and  his  wife  have  passed 
away,  both  having  died  in  1887.  They  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery. 

Thomas  Roycraft  acquired  his  education  partly  in  Ireland,  partly  in  Brook- 
lyn, New  York,  and  partly  in  Oshkosh  and  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin.  He  laid 
aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fifteen  and  thereafter  for  three  years  was  employed 
in  a sawmill  at  Eau  Claire.  When  his  parents  moved  to  a farm  in  Chippewa 
county  he  accompanied  them,  residing  upon  the  homestead  until  he  was  twenty- 
three  years  of  age  and  aiding  with  the  work  of  its  clearing  and  operation.  He 
was  afterward  employed  in  a mill  and  in  the  lumber  woods  of  the  northern  part 
of  the  state,  receiving  his  first  logging  contract  in  1879.  He  carried  this  out  for 
Peet  & Barnard,  which  firm  sold  out  to  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Com- 
pany. Mr.  Roycraft  continued  in  that  line  of  business  until  1896  but  in  the 
meantime  in  1882  purchased  his  first  farm,  which  was  located  on  section  28. 
He  sold  that  property  and  moved  to  another  farm,  afterward  buying  and  selling 
several  tracts  of  land  before  finally  settling  upon  his  present  holdings.  These 
comprise  three  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  section  32,  Lafayette  township, 
and  Mr.  Roycraft  has  provided  the  farm  with  an  excellent  residence  and  has  made 
other  substantial  improvements.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and 
has  met  with  well  merited  success  in  the  conduct  of  his  business  interests. 

Mr.  Roycraft  has  been  twice  married.  He  wedded  first  on  the  29th  of  March, 
1882,  Miss  Ellen  Harvey,  a daughter  of  Robert  and  Elizabeth  Harvey,  early 
settlers  in  Wisconsin.  The  father  aided  in  the  erection  of  the  first  capitol  build- 

Vol.  11—12 


218 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ing  at  Madison  and  became  well  known  in  farming  circles  of  Winnebago  county. 
He  and  his  wife  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Rushford  township,  that 
county.  Mrs.  Roycraft  died  September  13,  1894,  and  is  buried  in  Lafayette 
cemetery.  To  this  union  were  born  eight  children  : Leslie,  who  died  of  diph- 

theria in  October,  1888,  at  the  age  of  five,  and  is  buried  in  the  family  plot  in 
Lafayette  cemetery;  Adelaide  E.,  who  died  of  the  same  disease  October  31, 
1888.  at  the  age  of  three  and  one-half  years ; Robert  J.,  who  also  died  of  diphtheria, 
his  demise  occurring  October  4,  1888,  when  he  was  two  years  of  age;  Oscar, 
who  died  September  4,  1892,  at  the  age  of  two;  Ellen  S.,  who  died  August  15, 
1895;  Hollis,  who  died  September  24,  1895,  at  the  age  of  two  and  one-half 
years;  Cyrus  W.,  who  is  operating  the  farm  formerly  owned  by  his  father; 
and  Howard  S.,  a resident  of  Marshfield,  Oregon.  On  the  2d  of  April,  1895, 
Mr.  Roycraft  was  again  married,  his  second  wife  being  Mrs.  Amy  M.  (Melville) 
Johnson,  a daughter  of  John  C.  and  Alice  (Williamson)  Melville,  the  former  of 
whom  was  the  first  resident  in  Melville  settlement.  Mrs.  Roycraft  was  the 
widow  of  Joseph  Johnson,  who  lived  and  died  in  Chippewa  county.  By  her  union 
to  Mr.  Johnson  there  were  three  children:  Laura,  a professional  nurse  at  Duluth, 
Minnesota;  Tracy,  who  resides  with  his  mother;  and  Raymond,  who  also  lives 
with  his  mother.  To  Mr.  Roycraft’s  second  union  have  been  born  four  children, 
Henry,  James,  Louis  and  Amy. 

Mr.  Roycraft  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  His  success  is  directly  attributable  to  hard  work  and  the  intelli- 
gent use  of  the  opporunities  which  have  presented  themselves  and  it  has  brought 
him  to  a high  place  among  the  representative  and  substantial  agriculturists  of 
his  locality. 


WILLIAM  LARSON. 

Prominently  identified  with  various  business  and  corporate  interests  of 
Bloomer,  William  Larson  figures  as  one  of  the  representative  men  of  that  com- 
munity. and  for  many  years  has  been  one  of  the  most  potent  forces  in  promoting 
its  commercial  and  financial  growth.  He  is  vice  president  of  the  Bank  of 
Bloomer,  treasurer  and  general  manager  of  the  Farmers  Store  Company  and  vice 
president  of  the  Bloomer  Machine  Works  and  is  connected  with  numerous  other 
important  concerns.  He  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county,  born  in  1861,  a son  of 
Martin  Larson,  who  came  from  Norway  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  a 
young  man,  settling  in  Wisconsin  where  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming. 
He  died  in  Chippewa  when  he  was  sixty-two  years  of  age. 

William  Larson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  entered  the  mercantile  business  in 
Bloomer,  becoming  connected  with  the  Farmers  Store  Company  of  which  he  is 
now  general  manager.  The  other  officers  are : C.  P.  Hansen,  president ; Arnt 
Erickson,  vice  president,  and  Jacob  Boehmer,  secretary.  This  is  the  largest 
mercantile  establishment  in  Bloomer  and  there  are  besides  five  branches  in  Chip- 
pewa, Barron  and  Dunn  counties.  A complete  line  of  general  merchandise  is 
carried  and  there  is  a special  building  for  farm  machinery.  Under  Mr.  Larson’s 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


219 


efficient  direction  the  business  has  increased  rapidly  and  the  company  is  now  in 
control  of  an  important  trade.  He'  is  recognized  as  a progressive  and  resource- 
ful business  man  and  possesses  the  faculty  of  carrying  forward  to  successful 
completion  whatever  he  undertakes. 

Mr.  Larson  married  Miss  Laura  Benson,  a native  of  Chippewa  county,  and 
they  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children:  Lucy  and  Leon.  Air.  Larson  is 
a member  of  the  Masonic  fraternity  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs. 
He  served  for  some  time  as  clerk  of  the  courts  of  this  county,  proving  a capable 
and  conscientious  official.  He  has  an  extensive  circle  of  friends  in  Chippewa 
county  where  he  has  spent  his  entire  life  and  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of 
all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


HENRY  KUNTZ. 


Henry  Kuntz,  founder  and  president  of  the  North  Wisconsin  Manufactur- 
ing Company  and  as  such  an  important  factor  in  business  circles  of  Chippewa 
Falls,  was  born  at  Cedarburg,  Wisconsin,  May  29,  1853,  and  is  a son  of  Christian 
and  Caroline  (Conrad)  Kuntz.  The  father  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  Wis- 
consin, coming  to  America  from  Germany  in  1843  and  settling  in  this  state  when 
Milwaukee  was  no  more  than  a swamp  in  the  wilderness.  He  engaged  in  the 
real-estate  business  in  Cedarburg  for  a number  of  years,  having  cut  the  first 
tree  on  the  present  town  site,  and  he  became  well  and  favorably  known  in  polit- 
ical circles  of  Brown  county,  having  served  as  a delegate  to  various  state  conven- 
tions and  as  a member  of  the  county  board  of  supervisors.  During  eight  years 
he  made  five  journeys  to  his  native  country,  where  he  slept  in  the  room  where 
his  cradle  once  stood.  He  was  a well  read  and  extremely  able  man,  taking  an 
intelligent  interest  in  community  affairs  and  giving  his  hearty  cooperation  to 
projects  which  had  for  their  object  the  advancement  of  the  permanent  interests 
of  the  county.  He  died  in  1901,  at  the  age  of  eighty-two,  and  is  buried  in  Pine 
Grove,  Wisconsin.  He  had  long  survived  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in  1855, 
leaving  eight  children. 

Henry  Kuntz  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Morrison,  Brown 
county,  and  at  the  age  of  sixteen  moved  to  Peshtigo,  where  he  worked  at  load- 
ing vessels  in  the  harbor  and  also  attended  school  for  five  years.  Returning  home 
at  the  end  of  that  time,  he  secured  a position  in  a sawmill  and  held  it  for  four 
years,  after  which  he  moved  to  Marshfield,  Wood  county,  where  he  turned  his 
attention  to  the  manufacture  of  staves  and  beer  barrels,  building  up  a large  and 
important  trade,  his  territory  extending  as  far  west  as  San  Francisco.  During 
this  time  he  also  followed  the  real-estate  business  and  became  very  well  known 
in  business  circles,  rising  to  prominence  as  a man  of  energy,  resourcefulness 
and  well  directed  ambition.  At  this  period  in  his  career  he  first  became  con- 
nected with  public  life,  being  elected  assessor  of  the  town  of  Marshfield,  which 
included  five  townships  of  Wood  county.  He  was  afterward,  almost  without 
his  knowledge  and  entirely  without  his  solicitation,  elected  treasurer  of  Wood 
county  and  he  held  this  office  for  ten  years  thereafter,  his  able  service  being  evi- 
denced by  the  fact  that  at  his  last  election  he  polled  the  largest  majority  of  votes 


220 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ever  received  by  a candidate  for  the  office.  In  1883  he  was  elected  sheriff  and 
reelected  in  1887  and  his  work  in  this  office  was  distinguished  by  the  same  clear- 
sightedness, energy  and  conscientiousness  which  have  marked  all  of  his  public 
service.  From  Wood  county  Mr.  Ivuntz  removed  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he 
established  himself  as  a manufacturer  of  barrel  staves  and  where  he  engaged 
also  as  a dealer  in  real  estate,  continuing  thus  until  1903,  when  he  turned  his 
attention  to  his  present  line  of  work.  He  founded  the  North  Wisconsin  Man- 
ufacturing Company  and  erected  a plant  at  the  corner  of  Maynard  street  and 
East  Grand  avenue.  Here  from  ten  to  twenty  people  are  constantly  employed 
in  the  manufacture  of  all  kinds  of  interior  furnishings  and  the  business  forms 
one  of  the  important  industrial  concerns  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Since  its  foun- 
dation Mr.  Kuntz  has  served  as  president  and  to  his  enterprise,  well-timed 
aggressiveness  and  ability  the  institution  owes  its  continued  growth  and  present 
prosperity. 

Mr.  Kuntz  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  belongs  to  the  Masonic 
lodge  and  chapter.  His  attention  is,  however,  largely  concentrated  upon  his 
business  affairs,  which  are  ably  and  progressively  managed  and  which  have 
brought  him  a success  that  places  him  among  the  men  of  marked  ability  and 
substantial  worth  in  his  community. 


CORNELIUS  CHRISTIANSON. 


Cornelius  Christianson,  prominently  connected  with  industrial  interests  of 
Pdoomer  as  manager  of  the  Bloomer  Milling  Company,  the  business  of  which  is 
controlled  by  the  Christianson  estate,  was  born  in  Chippewa  county,  four  miles 
south  of  Bloomer,  in  Tilden  township,  in  1887.  He  is  a son  of  Ole  Christianson, 
a native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  about  twenty- 
eight  years  of  age  and  located  in  Minnesota.  He  afterward  moved  to  Chippewa 
county,  where  he  followed  farming  and  the  lumbering  and  logging  business  for  a 
number  of  years.  Until  1905  he  owned  a large  lumber  yard  in  Bloomer,  disposing 
of  this  when  he  purchased  from  R.  D.  Marshall  and  A.  B.  McDonald  the  business 
operated  under  the  name  of  the  Bloomer  Milling  Company.  The  original  plant 
was  destroyed  by  fire  in  1907  and  Ole  Christianson  erected  the  present  mill  which 
he  continued  to  conduct  until  his  death,  which  occurred  February  23,  1908.  His 
wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Eline  Gubberud  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  two  children : Cornelius,  of  this  review;  and  Mrs.  E.  F.  Ackley. 

Cornelius  Christianson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Bloomer 
and  later  attended  a business  college  in  Eau  Claire.  After  laying  aside  his  books 
he  became  connected  with  the  Bloomer  Milling  Company  as  bookkeeper  for  his 
father.  Since  the  latter’s  death  he  has  been  acting  as  manager  of  the  concern 
and  has  directed  its  affairs  in  a farsighted  and  progressive  way.  This  is  the  largest 
mill  in  the  county  outside  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  in  it  is  manufactured  the  Purity 
and  Belle  brands  of  flour.  The  company  also  handles  all  kinds  of  grain,  feed,  hay 
and  potatoes  and  employs  about  five  men  the  year  round.  In  his  management 
of  this  important  enterprise  Mr.  Christianson  has  proved  himself  a reliable, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


221 


resourceful  and  progressive  business  man  and  the  concern  has  grown  rapidly 
during  the  years  of  his  connection  with  it. 

Mr.  Christianson  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  his  religious  views 
are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church.  Bloomer 
numbers  him  among  her  valued  residents  and  the  fact  that  many  of  his  stanchest 
friends  are  those  who  have  known  him  from  childhood  is  an  indication  that  his 
life  has  been  at  all  times  worthy  of  the  high  esteem  in  which  he  is  uniformly  held. 


ALBERT  I.  JOHNSON. 

Albert  I.  Johnson  is  actively  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying  upon 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  in  Tilden  township  and  is  numbered  among 
the  most  progressive  and  able  of  the  younger  farmers  in  this  locality.  He  was 
born  upon  the  property  he  now  operates  in  1886  and  is  a son  of  John  Johnson, 
a native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States  after  he  was  fifty  years 
of  age.  The  latter  worked  in  different  sections  of  the  country  until  about  1876, 
when  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  purchased  the  farm  now  in  possession  of 
his  son.  Here  he  engaged  in  general  agricultural  pursuits  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  when  was  eighty-two  years  of  age.  He  married  here  Miss  Anna 
Berg,  who  survives  him,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children : Mrs. 

A.  L.  Andreassen,  of  Sunnyside,  Washington;  Albert  I.,  of  this  review;  and 
Oscar,  living  in  Bloomer. 

Albert  J.  Johnson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this  county 
and  in  those  of  Bloomer  and  he  later  attended  the  State  University  at  Madison. 
After  he  laid  aside  his  books  he  assumed  the  management  of  the  homestead  and 
this  property  he  has  since  operated,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  dairying. 
In  the  management  and  conduct  of  the  place  he  displays  excellent  business 
ability  and  his  enterprise,  careful  control  and  keen  discernment  are  factors  which 
have  gained  for  him  a place  among  the  leading  agriculturists  of  his  locality. 

In  December,  1912,  Mr.  Johnson  was  united  in  marriage  ro  Miss  Lennie  Diet- 
rich,  and  both  are  well  known  and  favorably  regarded  in  Tilden  township.  Mr. 
Johnson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Although  still  a young  man,  he  occupies  a 
position  among  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county  and  the  most  envious 
cannot  grudge  him  his  success — so  worthily  has  it  been  won. 


JAMES  HARRISON  MUNRO. 

Among  the  honored  and  prominent  citizens  of  Chippewa  county  is  fames 
Harrison  Munro,  president  of  the  State  Bank  of  Cadott  and  for  many  years 
a well  known  merchant  of  the  town.  He  has  now  passed  the  seventy-sixth 
milestone  on  life’s  journey,  having  been  born  in  the  town  of  Bolton,  Chitten- 
den county,  Vermont,  in  1837.  His  parents  were  Spencer  and  Lucy  (Kent) 
Munro,  the  former' of  Irish  descent  and  the  latter  of  Scotch  lineage.  In  She- 


222 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


boygan  Falls,  James  H.  Munro  pursued  his  education  and  devoted  ten  years 
of  early  manhood  to  the  occupation  of  farming.  At  different  times  in  his  life 
obstacles  and  difficulties  have  confronted  him  but  courage  has  enabled  him  to 
continuously  progress  to  success.  For  twenty-seven  years  he  engaged  in  general 
merchandising,  keeping  a well  appointed  store,  and  his  close  application  and 
unfaltering  energy  were  the  factors  in  bringing  him  the  substantial  rewards  of 
labor.  He  is  now  living  practically  retired,  although  he  is  still  identified  with 
financial  interests  as  a director  and  president  of  the  State  Bank  at  Cadott. 

In  Richford,  Wisconsin,  in  1861,  Mr.  Munro  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Phoebe  Jane  Firman,  who  was  indeed  a faithful  companion  and  helpmate  to 
him  on  life’s  journey.  In  early  womanhood  she  engaged  in  teaching  school. 
She  proved  herself  a homemaker  and  one  who  carefully  managed  household 
affairs  and  wisely  reared  her  children,  four  in  number — Cora,  Arthur,  Fred 
and  Alice.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Munro  traveled  life’s  way  happily  together  for  forty- 
four  years  or  until  they  were  separated  by  the  death  of  the  wife  in  1905. 

In  politics  Mr.  Munro  is  a republican,  having  long  supported  the  party, 
believing  firmly  in  its  principles.  He  has  acceptably  filled  several  local  offices, 
serving  as  town  treasurer,  as  postmaster,  as  justice  of  the  peace,  as  president  of 
the  village  and  in  several  minor  positions.  He  has  made  an  excellent  record  in 
all  these  connections  and  the  town  has  profited  by  his  efforts  in  its  behalf.  He 
has  long  been  prominent  in  the  Odd  Fellows  society,  is  a past  grand  of  the  local 
lodge,  a member  of  the  grand  lodge  and  also  president  of  Group  No.  9 of 
Wisconsin.  High  ideals  have  actuated  him  in  his  life  and  he  has  ever  been 
governed  by  manly  principles,  endeavoring  to  do  to  others  as  he  would  have 
them  do  to  him.  He  commands  the  respect  and  good-will  of  all  and  is  justly 
accounted  one  of  the  worthy  and  valued  citizens  of  Chippewa  county. 


JOHN  H.  McGRAW. 

John  H.  McGraw,  a timber  estimator  residing  at  No.  519  West  Willow  street 
in  Chippewa  Falls,  has  become  an  expert  in  that  line  through  many  years’  experi- 
ence. He  has  made  his  home  in  Chippewa  Falls  for  the  past  forty-six  years  and 
has  long  been  numbered  among  its  prosperous,  respected  and  representative 
citizens.  His  birth  occurred  in  Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  on  the  4th  of 
March,  1850,  his  parents  being  William  and  Ellen  (Keith)  McGraw.  The 
family  is  of  Scotch-Irish  origin.  William  McGraw,  a pioneer  farmer  and  store- 
keeper of  Waukesha  county,  passed  away  when  our  subject  was  but  three  months 
old.  Both  he  and  his  wife,  whose  demise  occurred  in  1861,  are  buried  in  the 
cemetery  of  Erin,  Washington  county. 

Tohn  H.  McGraw  attended  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county  until  four- 
teen years  of  age  and  then  removed  to  Fond  du  Lac,  Wisconsin,  where  he  worked 
for  a farmer  for  a short  time.  In  1867  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  was  here 
employed  as  helper  to  a male  cook  for  about  one  year.  Subsequently  he  worked 
in  the  woods,  hauling  logs  for  the  firm  of  Gilbert  Hedge  & Company,  in  whose 
employ  he  remained  for  about  five  years.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he 
went  out  as  an  examiner,  exploring  the  woods  and  land  to  estimate  the  standing 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


223 


pine,  and  with  this  line  of  work  he  has  been  identified  continuously  since.  His 
duties  have  often  necessitated  his  absence  from  home  for  thirty  days,  and  he  has 
carried  provisions  and  remained  away  as  long  as  these  lasted.  He  is  a director 
of  the  Northwestern  State  Bank  and  owns  much  property.  He  is  still  frequently 
called  upon  to  settle  disputes  in  timber  estimates  and  is  widely  recognized  as 
an  expert  on  the  subject. 

On  the  4th  of  July,  1875,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  McGraw  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Anna  Melville,  her  parents  being  William  and  Carrie  (Thomas) 
Melville,  both  of  whom  are  deceased  and  lie  buried  in  the  cemetery  of  Lafayette, 
this  county.  William  Melville  was  a pioneer  agriculturist  of  Chippewa  county. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  McGraw  have  had  four  children,  as  follows : May,  who  died  at 

the  age  of  twenty-three  years  and  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls ; Martha,  who  is  the  wife  of  Carl  E.  Johnson,  a traveling  salesman ; 
W.  D.,  who  acts  as  a special  agent  for  the  Lumbermen’s  Fire  Insurance  Com- 
pany ; and  Doris,  a high  school  student.  The  handsome  family  residence  was 
erected  by  Mr.  McGraw. 

In  politics  Mr.  McGraw  is  a stanch  democrat,  supporting  the  men  and  meas- 
ures of  that  party  at  the  polls.  He  has  served  in  the  capacity  of  county  surveyor 
and  did  excellent  work  in  that  connection.  The  cause  of  education  has  ever 
found  in  him  a stalwart  champion  and  he  has  done  valuable  work  in  its  behalf 
as  a member  of  the  board  of  education  for  more  than  twenty-four  consecutive 
years,  still  serving  thereon  at  the  present  time.  Fraternally  he  is  a Knights 
Templar  Mason,  belonging  to  the  commandery  at  Chippewa  Falls.  Industry 
and  progress  seem  to  be  the  salient  features  in  his  career  and  have  been  potent 
elements  in  the  acquirement  of  a success  which,  however,  is  apparent  not  only 
in  terms  of  material  gain  but  also  in  the  regard  and  high  esteem  of  his  fellowmen. 


CARL  PEDERSEN. 

Carl  Pedersen,  who  for  many  years  has  been  associated  in  an  influential  way 
with  farming  interests  of  Chippewa  county,  was  born  in  Aker,  Norway,  May 
10,  1852,  and  is  a son  of  Peder  Rasmussen  and  Maren  Ammunsen,  both  of  whom 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  that  locality.  He  acquired  his  education 
in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age 
of  fourteen.  He  afterward  worked  at  driving  logs  on  the  river  until  1872,  when 
he  emigrated  to  America,  settling  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  engaged  in  the 
same  line  of  business  in  the  employ  of  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company. 
He  worked  in  the  mills  and  in  various  other  departments  of  this  concern  for  a 
number  of  years  but  in  the  meantime  had  purchased  land  on  section  13,  Lafay- 
ette township.  This  he  developed  in  connection  with  his  other  business  affairs 
for  a number  of  years  but  is  now  concentrating  his  attention  upon  his  farming 
interests.  At  the  time  he  took  up  his  home  upon  the  property  it  was  covered 
with  a heavy  growth  of  timber  and  brush  but  he  has  now  cleared  over  sixty  acres, 
six  acres  being  planted  in  tobacco.  He  has  erected  excellent  buildings  upon  the 
property  and  has  otherwise  improved  it  until  today  it  returns  him  a substantial 


income. 


224 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Pedersen  married  in  Chippewa  Falls  in  1883  Miss  Agnes  Hanson,  a 
daughter  of  Hans  Holberson,  of  Christiania,  Norway.  He  died  in  that  city  and 
his  wife  afterward  emigrated  to  America.  She  also  has  passed  away  and  is 
buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery.  Mrs.  Pedersen  died  in  August,  1911,  at  the  age 
of  fifty-nine  years,  leaving  seven  children:  Alma,  the  wife  of  Christ  Ingbert- 

son,  a lumber  piler  in  Stanley ; Martha,  who  married  Andrew  Pedersen,  of 
Superior,  Wisconsin;  Peder,  a farmer  in  Montana;  Hartwig,  a resident  of  Chi- 
cago; Arnold,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Conrad,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  and  Carl 
Edler.  a farmer  in  Montana. 

Mr.  Pedersen  is  a member  of  the  Scandinavian  Workers  Association,  belongs 
to  the  United  Norwegian  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  His 
success  is  well  merited  for  it  has  come  to  him  as  a reward  of  labor. 


J.  E.  KUBAT. 

In  charge  of  one  of  the  finest  clothing  establishments  in  the  state  of  Wis- 
consin, J.  E.  Kubat  occupies  an  important  position  among  the  merchants  of 
Chippewa  Falls,  being  a member  of  the  St.  Clair-Kubat  Company,  a corpo- 
ration which  operates  a string  of  seventeen  clothing  stores  in  Iowa,  Wisconsin, 
Minnesota,  and  the  Dakotas.  A progressive  and  up-to-date  young  man,  Mr. 
Kubat  has  taken  a leading  place  in  commercial  circles,  although  he  came  to  Chip- 
pewa Falls  only  in  January,  1910,  making  his  way  here  from  Owatonna,  Min- 
nesota, where  he  was  born  April  5,  1881.  He  is  a son  of  Joseph  and  Anna 
(Slezak)  Kubat,  who  now  reside  at  Cromwell,  Minnesota.  The  father  is 
prominent  there  as  president  of  the  village  and  has  held  other  important  offices. 
He  was  one  of  the  pioneers  of  that  part  of  Minnesota  and  has  participated  in 
its  advancement  toward  becoming  the  great  commonwealth  it  is  today. 

J.  E.  Kubat  received  his  education  in  Owatonna,  Minnesota,  leaving  school 
at  the  early  age  of  twelve  years  in  order  to  become  connected  with  the  clothing 
business,  along  which  line  he  has  ever  since  been  engaged.  He  now  conducts 
the  local  store  of  the  St.  Clair-Kubat  Company  which  is  one  of  the  best  appointed 
and  best  stocked  in  the  state.  It  is  a credit  to  the  city  of  Chippewa  Falls  and 
would  be  a credit  to  any  metropolitan  city.  The  St.  Clair-Kubat  Company  was 
formed  by  five  enterprising  business  men : W.  F.  St.  Clair,  of  Owatonna,  Min- 
nesota; Jacob  Lenthold,  of  Kasson,  that  state;  Charles  Lenthold,  of  Waseca, 
Minnesota;  John  Lenthold,  of  St.  Paul;  and  J.  E.  Kubat,  our  subject.  This 
company  operates  seventeen  modern  and  wrell  appointed  stores  scattered  through- 
out Iowa,  Wisconsin,  Minnesota  and  the  Dakotas.  On  account  of  this  combi- 
nation it  is  enabled  to  purchase  at  the  very  lowest  figures  and  mark  its  goods  at 
the  most  reasonable  prices,  without  lowering  the  quality.  They  handle  only 
first-class  goods  and  stand  back  of  them  with  their  business  reputation.  The 
store  of  the  St.  Clair-Kubat  Company  in  Chippewa  Falls  burned  out  in  1912 
but  instead  of  being  hampered  by  this  unfortunate  accident  it  proved  but  a 
stepping-stone  toward  the  establishment  of  a more  commodious  and  more  modern 
store.  They  immediately  bought  a building  of  their  own,  remodeled  it  and  made 
it  one  of  the  model  clothing  stores  of  the  city.  Mr.  Kubat,  who  is  also  inter- 


J.  E.  KUBAT 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


227 


ested  in  the  other  stores,  is  one  of  the  most  aggressive  merchants  of  the  city  and 
public-spirited  in  the  best  sense  of  the  word,  being  interested  in  anything  that 
will  benefit  the  locality. 

At  Owatonna,  Minnesota,  on  June  22,  1909,  Mr.  Kubat  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Elise  Kasper,  a daughter  of  Albert  and  Rose  Kasper,  residents  of 
that  city.  The  father  has  held  important  offices  there  and  is  one  of  the  oldest 
business  men  of  the  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kubat  have  one  son,  Clifford  E.  They 
make  their  home  at  No.  19  West  Central  street,  Chippewa  Falls,  and  are  prom- 
inent in  the  best  social  circles  of  the  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kubat  are  members 
of  the  Episcopal  church  and  the  former  is  prominent  fraternally,  being  a mem- 
ber of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  the 
Woodmen  of  the  World.  Mr.  Kubat  exemplifies  in  his  career  the  value  of  action 
and  determination  and  although  yet  a young  man,  occupies  an  important  posi- 
tion in  the  commercial  life  of  the  city,  being  also  a factor  in  its  growth,  progress 
and  expansion,  although  he  has  never  aspired  to  official  honors,  preferring  to 
advance  the  general  interests  in  a private  capacity. 


LOUIS  C.  MANDELERT. 

Among  the  well-to-do  agriculturists  of  Chippewa  county  is  Louis  C.  Mandelert, 
who  owns  a farm  of  twenty-one  acres  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Beside  this  valuable 
property  he  also  owns  improved  real  estate  in  the  city  and  other  farm  land  in 
Sawyer  county.  He  comes  of  distinguished  French  ancestry  and  his  father  was 
one  of  the  pioneers  of  this  county.  Louis  C.  Mandelert  is  a native  of  Chippewa 
county,  his  birth  having  occurred  on  August  13,  1876,  his  parents  being  Charles 
and  Louise  (Thiberaut)  Mandelert.  The  father  was  one  of  the  first  and  most 
prominent  lumbermen  here  and  for  a number  of  years  served  as  secretary  and 
treasurer  of  the  French  Lumber  Company.  He  also  owned  a general  merchandise 
store  for  some  time  and  was  one  of  the  first  treasurers  of  the  township  of  Lafay- 
ette. Moreover,  he  was  prominent  in  church  affairs,  having  served  as  the  first 
treasurer  of  St.  John  the  Baptist  Society.  Mr.  Mandelert,  Sr.,  died  in  1909, 
at  the  age  of  eighty-four  years,  his  wife  having  preceded  him  in  death  twenty- 
two  years,  having  passed  away  in  1887,  at  the  age  of  thirty-five.  Both  found 
their  last  resting  place  in  Mount  Calvary  cemetery  in  Chippewa  Falls. 

Louis  C.  Mandelert  received  his  primary  education  in  the  Holy  Ghost  parochial 
school  and  subsequently  attended  St.  John’s  College  of  Collegeville,  Minnesota, 
where  he  graduated  in  1894.  He  then  became  bookkeeper  for  the  French  Lumber 
Company,  continuing  in  that  position  until  he  purchased  his  present  property. 
His  farm  is  in  the  very  best  condition  and  highly  productive.  The  residence  thereon 
has  been  recently  remodeled  by  Mr.  Mandelert.  He  also  owns  considerable 
improved  real  estate  in  the  city  and  holds  title  to  farm  land  in  Sawyer  county. 

On  June  10,  1901,  Mr.  Mandelert  married,  at  Chippewa  Falls,  Miss  Mabel 
G.  Crain,  a daughter  of  Albert  and  Amelia  Crain,  the  former  of  whom  was  in 
former  years  a well  known  logger,  and  both  parents  now  reside  in  the  city.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Mandelert  have  four  children  : Alice  A.,  Helen,  Lucille  M.  and  Robert  L. 


228 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Progressive  and  public-spirited,  Mr.  Mandelert  takes  a great  interest  in  all 
matters  of  public  importance  and  has  been  prominent  in  the  life  of  the  city.  His 
political  affiliation  is  that  of  a democrat  and  he  upholds  the  measures  and  candi- 
dates of  that  party  at  the  polls.  He  has  served  as  alderman  and  city  auditor  of 
Chippewa  Falls  and  in  both  connections  discharged  his  duties  in  a most  com- 
mendable manner.  He  enjoys  in  full  measure  the  esteem,  good  will  and  respect 
of  his  fellow  citizens  and  is  an  important  factor  in  promoting  the  progress  and 
advancement  of  Chippewa  Falls. 


THEODORE  J OHN SON. 

Among  the  younger  generation  of  Tilden  township’s  prosperous  farmers  is 
numbered  Theodore  Johnson,  living  upon  one  hundred  and  forty  acres  located 
six  miles  southeast  of  Bloomer,  a fine  property  which  reflects  everywhere  his 
careful  supervision  and  the  practical  labor  he  has  bestowed  upon  it.  He  was  born 
on  the  Johnson  homestead  in  this  county  in  1885  and  is  a son  of  Hans  Johnson,  a 
native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  twelve  years  of 
age  and  settled  in  Wisconsin,  where  he  grew  to  manhood.  He  afterward  engaged 
in  farming  in  Chippewa  county  and  continued  active  in  the  operation  of  his  prop- 
erty until  his  death,  which  occurred  when  he  was  fifty-two  years  of  age.  He 

married  Miss  Ragnel  Lofthus,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eight  children. 

Theodore  Johnson  was  reared  upon  his  father’s  farm  and  at  an  early  age  was 
thoroughly  familiar  with  the  best  agricultural  methods.  He  remained  upon  the 
homestead  until  1908  and  then  purchased  one  hundred  and  forty  acres  in  Tilden 
township,  Chippewa  county,  a property  upon  which  he  has  since  resided.  He 

has  made  substantial  improvements  upon  it  and  there  engages  in  general  farming, 

meeting  with  that  success  which  always  follows  earnest,  persistent  anl  well  directed 
labor. 

Mr.  Johnson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  a repub- 
lican in  his  political  beliefs.  He  has  rendered  the  township  excellent  service  as  a 
member  of  the  school  board  and  is  interested  in  community  affairs  without  being 
active  as  an  office  seeker.  Although  he  is  still  a young  man,  he  has  already  become 
an  important  factor  in  the  agricultural  development  of  his  locality  and  his  future 
will  undoubtedly  be  marked  by  continued  progress. 


RICHARD  A.  SHARP. 

Richard  A.  Sharp  is  one  of  the  younger  agriculturists  of  Ruby  township, 
Chippewa  county.  He  owns  a valuable  property  comprising  two  hundred  and 
forty  acres,  improved  with  substantial  buildings  and  one  of  the  finest  residences 
in  his  section.  Moreover,  Mr.  Sharp  can  lay  claim  to  distinction  as  one  of  the 
participants  in  the  Spanish-American  war,  in  which  he  followed  the  stars  and 
stripes  to  Cuba. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


229 


Richard  A.  Sharp  was  born  in  Wooster,  Ohio,  May  22,  1870,  a son  of  Phillip 
W.  Sharp,  a native  of  Chambersburg.  Franklin  county,  Pennsylvania,  and  a 
miller  by  trade,  who  changed  his  domicile  in  1859,  when  he  moved  to  Ohio. 
During  the  Civil  war  he  showed  his  patriotism  by  serving  in  the  Union  army. 
After  retiring  from  active  life  he  made  his  home  in  Canton,  Ohio,  where  he 
passed  away.  He  was  married  to  a Miss  Flohr,  who  also  died  in  that  city. 

Richard  A.  Sharp  was  reared  under  the  parental  roof  and  in  the  acquire- 
ment of  his  education  attended  the  common  schools  until  seventeen  years  of  age. 
He  then  took  up  telegraphy  and  was  employed  as  operator  in  various  places 
until  the  outbreak  of  the  Spanish- American  war.  In  April,  1898,  he  responded 
to  the  cali  for  volunteers  and  enlisted  in  Company  L,  Eighth  Ohio  Infantry, 
which  regiment  was  with  Shafter’s  army  in  Cuba  and  took  part  in  the  siege  of 
Santiago.  During  the  first  two  months  of  his  enlistment  he  was  a member  of 
the  United  States  Signal  Corps,  serving  for  the  rest  of  the  time  as  a private 
in  his  regiment.  In  1901  Mr.  Sharp  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  settled  on 
two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  unbroken  land,  to  which  he  had  acquired  title 
as  early  as  1899.  There  were  no  roads  leading  to  his  farm  when  he  came  here 
and  everything  was  as  yet  in  a wild  state.  All  of  the  valuable  improvements  on 
the  farm  have  been  made  by  him,  and  among  these  especially  noteworthy  is  a 
substantial,  commodious,  well  equipped  frame  house — one  of  the  finest  in  the 
county.  His  outbuildings  are  also  suitable  and  solidly  built,  giving  evidence  of 
the  foresight  and  good  management  with  which  the  farm  is  operated.  Mr. 
Sharp  engages  in  general  farming  and  is  on  the  highroad  to  prosperity. 

At  Fountain  City,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Sharp  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Lillian  J.  Clarke,  a native  of  Fond  du  Lac  county.  Mr.  Sharp  has  ever  taken 
deep  interest  in  all  matters  affecting  the  public  welfare  and  for  five  years  has 
ably  served  as  supervisor  of  Ruby  township.  He  gives  his  allegiance  to  the 
republican  party — that  party  which  so  quickly  settled  the  dispute  with  Spain 
and  gave  freedom  to  the  oppressed  peoples  of  the  West  Indies.  He  is  as  patri- 
otic in  his  citizenship  as  he  was  as  a soldier  when  he  followed  the  flag  to  Cuba 
and  is  therefore  highly  respected  and  esteemed  by  all  who  know  him,  and  there 
are  many  who  are  proud  to  call  him  friend. 


MARTIN  M.  BERG. 

Martin  M.  Berg,  a prominent  agriculturist  and  dairyman  of  Auburn  town- 
ship, owns  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  acres  two  and  a half  miles 
west  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  upon  this  property  in  1879  and  is  a son  of 
Peter  M.  Berg,  a native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he 
was  about  thirty-five  years  of  age.  He  settled  in  Menomonie,  this  state,  and 
came  from  there  to  Chippewa  Falls,  locating  on  the  land  now  owned  by  the 
subject  of  this  review.  Here  he  passed  away  at  the  age  of  fifty-eight.  He  and 
his  wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Martha  Halverson,  had  eight  chil- 
dren, six  of  whom  are  still  living. 

Martin  M.  Berg  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  coun- 
ty and  after  laying  aside  his  books  began  assisting  with  the  work  of  the  home- 


230 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


stead.  He  finally  purchased  the  property,  upon  which  he  has  erected  practically 
all  of  the  buildings  and  made  other  substantial  improvements.  He  has  met  with 
a gratifying  measure  of  success  and  the  place  reflects  everywhere  the  care  of  an 
able  and  progressive  agriculturist. 

Mr.  Berg  married  Miss  Alba  Evenson,  and  they  have  two  children,  Leona 
and  Alvin.  Mr.  Berg’s  political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  republican  party  and 
he  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  the 
Beavers.  He  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church. 
He  is  a man  whose  personal  characteristics  have  gained  him  the  esteem  and 
confidence  of  his  fellowmen  and  whose  industry,  enterprise  and  integrity  have 
not  only  contributed  to  his  own  prosperity  but  have  enabled  him  to  do  much 
toward  advancing  the  general  welfare. 


NICHOLAS  GUNDERMANN. 

Nicholas  Gundermann  lives  six  miles  northeast  of  Bloomer,  in  Bloomer  town- 
ship, where  he  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  three  hundred  and  forty  acres. 
He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1853  and  is  a son  of  Matthias  Gundermann,  who 
emigrated  to  America  and  settled  in  Chippewa  county  when  he  was  about  forty 
years  of  age.  He  turned  his  attention  to  farming  here  and  became  one  of  the 
prosperous  and  substantial  agriculturists  of  this  locality.  His  wife  was  in  her 
maidenhood  Miss  Elizabeth  Peters  and  they  became  the  parents  of  five  children. 

Nicholas  Gundermann  acquired  a public-school  education  and  after  laying  aside 
his  books,  for  some  time  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  In  Chippewa  county  he 
worked  in  the  lumber  woods  for  a number  of  years  and  finally  purchased  three 
hundred  and  forty  acres  in  Bloomer  township,  upon  which  he  has  since  resided. 
He  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and  because  he  has  steadily  adhered 
to  practical  and  progressive  methods  has  met  with  a gratifying  measure  of  success. 

Mr.  Gundermann  married  Miss  Kate  Bishel  and  they  have  twelve  children, 
Kate,  Louisa,  Lillie,  Sadie,  Mollie,  Felix,  Clara,  Della,  Leo,  Rosa,  Laurence  and 
Esther.  Mr.  Gundermann  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party 
and  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  He  is  a man  whose  industry, 
honesty  and  ability  have  gained  him  success  in  his  farming  operations  and  whose 
excellent  traits  of  mind  and  character  have  commanded  for  him  the  respect  and 
confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


ELI  EVENSON. 

Eli  Evenson,  who  for  the  past  thirty-seven  years  has  been  engaged  in  general 
farming  and  dairying  upon  a fine  property  of  two  hundred  acres  eight  miles 
southwest  of  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Norway  in  1840,  a son  of  Even  Ellefsen.  The 
father  emigrated  to  America  in  1848  and  settled  first  in  Chicago,  whence  he 
moved  to  Fond  du  Lac  county,  this  state,  where  he  engaged  in  farming  until  his 
death  in  1852. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


231 


Eli  Evenson  was  eight  years  of  age  when  he  was  brought  by  his  parents  to 
America.  He  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Fond  du  Lac  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  After  his  father's 
death  he  went  with  his  mother  to  the  vicinity  of  Eau  Claire  and  took  up  a claim 
near  Elk  Mound  upon  which  he  made  his  home  while  he  worked  in  the  woods. 
He  lived  there  until  after  he  was  twenty-eight  years  of  age,  when  he  moved  to  the 
vicinity  of  Colfax  where  he  purchased  a farm.  This  he  sold  in  1876  and  bought 
his  present  property  upon  which  he  has  resided  for  thirty-seven  years.  The 
place  is  a testimonial  to  his  industry  and  ability  for  he  has  made  all  the  improve- 
ments upon  it,  erected  barns  and  outbuildings  and  installed  the  necessary  equip- 
ment. He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  has  made  both  branches 
of  his  activities  profitable  sources  of  income. 

When  he  was  twenty-six  years  old  Mr.  Evenson  married  Miss  Johanna  Elisa- 
beth Brandt  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children,  six  of  whom  survive 
as  follows : Carl,  a resident  of  Canada ; Albert ; Elvin ; Claudine,  who  married 

O.  A.  Aasen,  a resident  of  Minnesota;  Alba,  who  became  the  wife  of  Martin 
Berg ; and  Clara,  who  married  Oscar  Hanson.  Mr.  Evenson  is  a member  of 
the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  A 
resident  of  Auburn  township  for  thirty-seven  years  he  has  become  widely  and 
favorably  known  there  and  has  made  many  substantial  contributions  to  agricultural 
development. 


BRADFORD  D.  VILES. 

Honored  and  respected  by  all,  there  is  no  man  who  occupies  a more  enviable 
position  in  business  and  financial  circles  of  Chippewa  Falls  than  Bradford  D. 
Viles,  vice  president  of  the  First  National  Bank  and  president  of  the  Chippewa 
River  Land  Company.  His  position  is  due  not  alone  to  the  success  he  has  achieved 
but  also  to  the  straightforward  business  policy  which  he  has  ever  followed,  his 
course  being  one  which  will  bear  the  closest  investigation  and  scrutiny.  Almost 
thirty  years  have  come  and  gone  since  he  arrived  in  Chippewa  county,  being 
then  a young  man  of  about  twenty-one  years.  He  was  born  at  Dead  River, 
Maine,  December  16,  1863,  and  is  a son  of  Joseph  and  Lucile  R.  (Hewett)  Viles. 
His  father  was  one  of  the  early  lumbermen  of  this  part  of  the  state  and  was 
prominent  in  developing  an  industry  which  constituted  the  chief  source  of  revenue 
for  this  district  for  a long  period.  He  died  in  1909  at  the  venerable  age  of  eighty- 
six  years,  respected  and  honored  by  all  who  knew  him.  He  is  still  survived  by 
his  wife,  who  makes  her  home  in  Chippewa  Falls.  The  family  is  of  English 
origin  but  has  been  represented  in  this  country  for  centuries,  and  Mr. 
Viles  was  truly  American  in  thought  and  spirit,  being  at  all  times  a loyal  citizen, 
devoted  to  the  best  interests  of  city,  state  and  nation. 

In  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire,  Bradford  D.  Viles  pursued  his  educa- 
tion, passing  through  consecutive  grades,  until  he  left  the  high  school  at  the  age 
of  seventeen  years.  It  was  then  that  he  made  his  initial  step  in  the  business 
world,  securing  the  position  of  bookkeeper  with  the  firm  of  Rogers  & Stanley, 
proprietors,  of  a general  store  at  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  remained  for  a year. 


2:52 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


At  the  end  of  that  time  he  took  charge  of  the  office  of  the  Viles  & Bruce  Lumber 
& Dogging  Company,  remaining  there  for  five  years.  He  was  ambitious,  how- 
ever, to  engage  in  business  on  his  own  account,  carefully  saving  his  earnings, 
and  when  his  industry  and  economy  had  brought  him  sufficient  capital  he  estab- 
lished a timber  and  logging  business,  in  which  he  has  since  been  engaged,  own- 
ing considerable  tracts  of  timber  land.  He  is  president  of  the  Chippewa 
River  Land  Company  and  he  further  extended  his  efforts  by  entering  into  active 
connection  with  the  banking  business,  as  vice  president  of  the  First  National 
Bank  of  Chippewa  Falls.  His  plans  are  always  carefully  formulated  and  promptly 
executed  and  his  keen  insight  has  enabled  him  to  readily  comprehend  the  possi- 
bilities of  a business  situation  and  work  toward  its  accomplishment. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  16th  of  December,  1887,  Mr.  Viles  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Jessie  I.  Kehl,  a daughter  of  John  B.  and  Susie  F.  (Wright) 
Kehl.  Her  father  was  the  founder  of  the  Glen  Mills  and  for  many  years  ranked 
with  the  prominent  business  men  of  this  district,  so  that  his  death  was  deeply 
regretted  when  in  1909  he  passed  away,  his  remains  being  interred  in  Forest  Hill 
cemetery.  He  was  prominent  in  various  connections  aside  from  business,  was 
honored  with  a number  of  political  offices  and  at  one  time  served  as  a member 
of  the  state  legislature.  He  left  the  impress  of  his  individuality  for  good  upon 
the  political  development  of  this  district.  He  is  survived  bv  his  wife,  who  resides 
in  Chippewa  Falls.  Four  children  have  been  born  unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Viles: 
Maurita,  the  wife  of  George  M Smith,  of  Mondovi,  Wisconsin;  Josephine,  a 
graduate  of  the  University  of  Wisconsin;  Clair,  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  Falls 
high  school ; and  Ralph,  who  is  a student  in  St.  John’s  Military  Academy.  The 
family  occupy  a pleasant  and  commodious  home  at  No.  506  West  Willow  street, 
which  was  erected  by  Mr.  Viles,  and  in  the  social  circles  of  the  city  they  occupy 
an  enviable  position. 

Mr.  Viles  votes  with  the  republican  party  and  is  conversant  with  the  lead- 
ing questions  of  the  day,  being  able  to  support  his  position  by  intelligent  argu- 
ment. He  does  not  seek  nor  desire  office,  however,  but  concentrates  his  energies 
upon  his  business  affairs,  and  their  capable  direction  has  made  him  one  of  the 
substantial  citizens  of  Chippewa  Falls,  while  his  business  record  is  a valuable 
asset  in  the  commercial  activity  of  the  city. 


NEDS  O.  NELSON. 

A fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  eight  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer 
in  Auburn  township  is  the  property  of  Nels  O.  Nelson  and  in  its  cultivation  he 
has  surrounded  himself  with  a comfortable  degree  of  prosperity.  He  is  a native 
of  Norway,  born  in  1856,  a son  of  Ole  Nelson,  who  emigrated  to  the  LJnited  States 
a few  years  after  his  marriage,  settling  in  Dodge  county  in  the  summer  of  1859. 
He  moved  to  Chippewa  county  at  the  end  of  two  years  and  here  purchased  the 
farm  upon  which  his  son  now  resides,  continuing  to  operate  this  property  until 
his  death  which  occurred  when  he  was  over  sixty  years  of  age.  He  married 
Miss  Mary  Halverson  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


233 


Mr.  Nelson  was  still  a child  when  he  came  with  his  parents  to  America  and 
he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county.  After  laying- 
aside  his  books  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  but  soon  afterwards  began 
working  in  the  lumber  woods,  continuing  thus  for  twenty-three  years.  At  the 
end  of  that  time  he  moved  upon  his  father’s  farm  in  Auburn  township  and  upon 
this  property  he  has  since  resided.  All  the  buildings  were  upon  it  when  it  came 
into  his  possession  but  he  has  made  other  substantial  improvements,  following 
always  the  most  progressive  and  practical  methods  in  the  operation  of  the  farm. 

Mr.  Nelson  married  Miss  Ella  Olson  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eleven 
children:  Olga,  Oscar,  Mary,  Norman,  Robert,  Helen,  Odin,  Lawrence,  Ila, 

Norma  and  Evelyn.  Mr.  Nelson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran 
church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  interested  in  the  growth 
and  development  of  the  section  in  which  he  has  resided  since  his  childhood  and 
enjoys  the  high  regard  of  all  who  know  him. 


W.  W.  HILLMAN. 

, One  cannot  carry  investigation  far  into  the  pioneer  history  of  Chippewa 
county  without  learning  of  the  part  which  W.  W.  Hillman  took  in  promoting 
agricultural  development  in  those  early  times.  For  over  forty  years  he  has 
made  his  home  on  his  farm  in  Bloomer  township  and  during  the  greater  portion 
of  this  time  has  been  an  active  agriculturist,  although  he  is  now  living  in  practi- 
cal retirement.  He  has  seen  the  section  develop  from  an  unsettled  wilderness 
into  a prosperous  farming  community  and  his  work  has  been  an  important  force 
in  promoting  the  change.  Throughout  the  years  he  has  met  with  well  deserved 
and  steadily  increasing  success  and  has  gained  the  confidence  and  respect  of  his 
neighbors,  being  honored  also  as  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  He  was  born  in 
Albany,  New  York,  in  1839,  and  is  a son  of  John  Hillman,  a native  of  Scotland, 
who  came  to  the  United  States  as  a young  man  and  settled  in  New  York  state, 
where  he  spent  the  greater  portion  of  his  life.  During  his  latter  years  he  moved 
to  a farm  in  the  southern  part  of  Wisconsin  and  engaged  in  agricultural  pur- 
suits there  for  some  time.  However,  he  afterward  returned  to  New  York  city, 
where  his  death  occurred.  He  married  Miss  Jane  A.  Van  Wormer,  and  they 
became  the  parents  of  nine  children,  four  of  whom  are  still  living. 

W.  W.  Hillman  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  New  York 
state  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  followed  farming  there  for  a short  time. 
He  came  first  to  Chippewa  county  when  he  was  nineteen  years  of  age  and  he 
helped  to  build  the  first  schoolhouse  in  Cook  Valley,  becoming  its  first  teacher 
afterward.  From  this  state  he  enlisted  in  1863  in  Company  K,  Second  Wisconsin 
Cavalry,  and  he  served  in  the  Union  army  for  one  year  and  a half,  at  the  end 
of  which  time,  his  health  failing,  he  received  his  honorable  discharge.  Upon 
his  return  from  the  war  he  settled  again  in  Chippewa  county  and  preempted 
the  first  land  in  Cook  Valley,  locating  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  upon  one 
half  of  which  he  has  since  resided.  Pioneer  times  prevailed  there  at  the  time 
of  his  arrival  and  all  the  hardships  and  trials  of  pioneer  existence  were  to  be 
met.  The  region  was  a wilderness  and  sparsely  settled,  there  being  at  that 


234 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


time  no  houses  between  Mr.  Hillman’s  farm  and  Bloomer.  With  characteristic 
energy  and  resolution  he  set  himself  to  develop  his  property,  clearing  the  timber 
and  erecting  the  necessary  farm  buildings.  The  years  brought  him  substantial 
success  as  a result  of  his  well  directed  and  persistent  labors  and  his  farm  became 
very  valuable,  reflecting  everywhere  the  careful  labor  which  he  bestowed  upon 
it.  Eventually  he  rented  a portion  of  his  homestead,  although  he  still  makes 
his  home  upon  eighty  acres  of  the  property,  and  retired  from  active  life,  having 
well  earned  a period  of  rest  and  leisure. 

Mr.  Hillman  has  been  twice  married.  He  wedded  first  Miss  Florence  A. 
King,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  six  children,  John  W.,  Jennie  C.,  Agnes 
A.,  Nellie  M.,  Arthur  C.  and  Florence  H.  After  the  death  of  his  first  wife  Mr. 
Hillman  married  Miss  Helen  Radermacker,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of 
a son,  William  H. 

Mr.  Hillman  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  and  has 
been  honored  by  his  fellow  citizens  by  election  to  positions  of  public  trust  and 
responsibility.  He  was  the  first  clerk  of  Auburn  township  and  for  the  past 
thirty  years  has  been  justice  of  the  peace,  discharging  his  duties  in  a capable 
and  conscientious  way.  During  the  many  years  of  his  residence  in  this  county 
he  has  taken  an  active  and  prominent  part  in  the  work  of  its  upbuilding,  cooper- 
ating heartily  in  all  measures  and  movements  for  the  advancement  of  commun- 
ity interests.  His  upright  and  honorable  qualities  of  character  are  widely  recog- 
nized and  have  commanded  for  him  the  respect  and  esteem  of  a large  circle  of 
friends. 


ASA  E.  FLETCHER,  M.  D. 

Dr.  Asa  E.  Fletcher  is  recognized  as  a man  of  character,  ready  to  meet  an 
emergency,  capable,  strong  and  successful.  The  determination  which  enabled 
him  to  secure  an  education  has  been  one  of  the  chief  factors  in  his  success 
throughout  life  and  has  placed  him  in  a prominent  professional  position  for  one 
of  his  years.  Dr.  Fletcher  was  born  in  Delta,  Ohio,  January  io,  1882,  a son 
of  Charles  A.  and  Della  M.  Fletcher.  While  spending  his  youthful  days  under 
the  parental  roof  he  attended  the  Delta  high  school,  from  which  he  was  gradu- 
ated with  the  class  of  1896.  He  afterward  attended  the  Spring  Arbor  Semin- 
ary at  Spring  Arbor,  Michigan,  and  completed  his  academic  course  in  1900.  It 
was  his  ambition  to  enter  upon  a professional  career  and  the  practice  of  medicine 
seemed  most  attractive  to  him.  Family  tradition  says  that  the  first  word  he 
pronounced  was  “Doc.”  At  any  rate,  in  later  years  he  determined  to  annex 
that  prefix  to  his  name.  He  had  no  means  to  meet  the  expense  of  a college 
education,  but  one  day  he  met  a medical  student  on  a vacation  who  told  him  of 
the  chances  to  make  his  way  through  college  in  Indianapolis  by  selling  papers. 
Within  a week  he  had  made  preparations  for  going  to  that  city,  and  when  he 
arrived  there  the  medical  school  had  been  in  session  for  three  weeks.  He  at 
once  set  about  to  find  a newspaper  route.  Within  a few  days  he  had  fifty-seven 
customers ; a little  later  the  number  had  increased  to  four  hundred,  and  then  he 
began  to  get  up  at  4 o’clock  in  the  morning  and  walk  ten  miles  before  breakfast. 


ASA  E.  FLETCHER 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


237 


For  four  years  that  was  his  daily  custom.  He  estimated  that  he  walked  fifteen 
thousand  miles  and  sold  a half  million  copies  of  papers  in  order  to  get  his  medical 
education.  In  1907  he  entered  the  Indiana  Eclectic  College  of  Medicine,  of 
Indianapolis,  and  was  graduated  from  the  Physio-Medical  College  of  Indiana  in 
1909  and  from  the  Indiana  University  School  of  Medicine  in  1911.  He  studied 
under  physicians  and  engaged  in  nursing  for  five  years  before  beginning  the  college 
work  proper,  and  thus  his  preparation  for  professional  duties  was  most  thorough 
and  comprehensive.  He  was  appointed  a member  of  the  Indiana  state  board 
of  health  and  in  the  hygiene  laboratory  administered  the  Pasteur  treatment  in 
1911  and  1912.  He  is  now  practicing  in  Cadott  and  is  meeting  with  excellent 
success  as  viewed  from  both  the  financial  and  professional  standpoints.  He  is 
constantly  reading  and  studying  along  professional  lines  and  his  success  has 
brought  him  to  a point  where  all  recognize  his  ability. 

On  the  30th  of  July,  1913,  at  Cadott,  Dr.  Fletcher  was  married  to  Miss  Flossie 
M.  Kreig,  a daughter  of  George  M.  and  Carrie  S.  Kreig,  of  Indianapolis.  They 
first  met  at  a party  where  he  was  giving  chiromantic  readings  and  in  her  hands 
he  saw  the  ideal  he  had  been  looking  for.  Courtship  began  soon  after  that 
memorable  occasion  and  four  years  later  ihey  were  married.  Mrs.  Fletcher  is 
a professional  trained  nurse  and  is  ably  assisting  the  Doctor  in  his  practice.  Dr. 
Fletcher  is  a member  of  the  Sidenham  Society  of  Indiana  and  fraternally  he  is 
connected  with  the  Masons.  He  served  as  senior  deacon  in  his  lodge  in  1912 
and  he  is  always  loyal  to  the  teachings  of  the  craft.  He  served  for  four  years 
in  the  United  States  navy,  advancing  to  the  position  of  chief  petty  officer.  The 
incidents  and  events  of  his  life  have  been  many  and  varied  for  one  of  his  years 
and  his  experiences  have  been  of  a broadening  character.  He  is  a young  man 
of  notable  force  and  ability  and  all  who  know  him  predict  for  him  a most  suc- 
cessful future. 


JOHN  ANGLUM. 

John  Anglum  is  engaged  in  the  business  of  buying  and  selling  live  stock  in 
Chippewa  Falls,  with  office  at  No.  407  West  Central  street.  He  has  occupied 
this  location  since  190S,  and  in  the  conduct  of  his  interests  is  meeting  with  sub- 
stantial success  because  of  his  well  managed  affairs.  He  was  born  in  this  city, 
February  22,  1867,  and  is  a son  of  William  and  Jane  (Hogan)  Anglum.  The 
father  came  to  this  county  in  1858  from  County  Tipperary,  Ireland,  and  for 
twenty  years  acceptably  filled  the  office  of  chief  of  police.  He  was  a black- 
smith by  trade  but  much  of  his  life  was  devoted  to  public  service.  Six  brothers 
came  with  him  to  the  new  world  and  all  were  killed  during  the  Civil  war.  Wil- 
liam Anglum  survived  until  1901,  passing  away  at  the  age  of  seventy-eight  years 
and  his  wife  died  in  1904.  Both  are  buried  in  Hope  cemetery  in  Chippewa  Falls. 
The  father  was  a popular  citizen,  many  substantial  qualities  winning  for  him 
the  warm  regard  in  which  he  was  everywhere  held.  Unto  him  and  his  wife 
were  born  five  children : William,  a merchant  of  Eau  Claire ; Tohn.  of  this 

review;  Michael,  who  died  at  Superior,  Wisconsin,  in  1898,  at  the  age  of  twenty- 

one  years,  and  is  buried  in  the  family  lot  where  rest  the  remains  of  his  parents  • 

vol  n— 1 3 


238 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mary,  a nurse  in  the  Baptist  Hospital  in  Chicago;  and  Katie,  who  died  at  the  age 
of  thirteen  years. 

John  Anglum  acquired  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls,  passing  through 
consecutive  grades  until  he  left  the  high  school  at  the  age  of  eighteen  years,  wish- 
ing to  enter  business  circles.  Subsequently,  however,  he  pursued  a course  in 
the  Chippewa  Business  College.  He  started  out  in  the  business  world  at  scal- 
ing logs  in  the  woods  and  continued  in  that  work  for  a decade.  Later  he  turned 
his  attention  to  the  purchase  and  sale  of  live  stock  and  in  connection  therewith 
has  dealt  in  real  estate.  He  is  an  excellent  judge  of  stock  and  seldom  makes 
a mistake  in  his  investments.  He  is  also  thoroughly  informed  concerning  realty 
values  and  has  negotiated  a number  of  important  realty  transfers. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  15th  of  July,  1903,  Mr.  Anglum  was  married  to 
Miss  Eva  Bell,  a daughter  of  John  and  Lillian  (Sealy)  Bell,  the  parents  being 
among  the  oldest  settlers  of  the  county.  The  father  is  now  engaged  in  farming 
at  Eagle  Point.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Anglum  have  a family  of  five  children:  Essie 

and  Isabelle,  who  are  attending  school;  John;  Helen;  and  Alice.  Mr.  Anglum 
became  the  owner  of  a large  and  beautiful  home  at  No.  407  West  Central  street, 
which  he  and  his  family  now  occupy.  It  is  celebrated  for  its  warm  hearted 
hospitality  and  good  cheer  and  is  the  scene  of  many  attractive  social  functions. 

Mr.  Anglum  is  a member  of  the  Ancient  Order  of  Hibernians  and  adheres  to 
the  Roman  Catholic  church.  His  political  support  is  given  the  democratic  party 
and  he  has  served  as  alderman  for  five  terms  and  as  chief  of  the  fire  depart- 
ment. This  does  not  cover  his  entire  public  service,  however,  for  he  is  at  all 
times  ready  and  willing  to  aid  in  movements  for  the  general  good  and  has  given 
hearty  and  helpful  support  to  various  public  projects. 


WILLIAM  DURCH. 

Since  1862  William  Durch  has  owned  and  operated  a farm  of  two  hundred 
and  twenty  acres  in  the  town  of  Bloomer,  township  31,  range  9,  west,  and  by 
intelligent  management  and  well  directed  labor  has  surrounded  himself  with  an 
enviable  degree  of  prosperity,  his  farm  today  being  one  of  the  most  valuable 
properties  in  his  locality.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1844  and  is  a son  of  Antony 
Durch,  a native  of  that  country,  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1845  and  settled 
in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin.  After  remaining  there  for  a short  time  he  moved  to 
a farm  in  Washington  county  and  in  1863  took  up  his  residence  in  Chippewa 
county,  arriving  here  in  the  year  in  which  the  wheat  froze  in  July.  He  followed 
farming  in  Bloomer  township  for  the  remainder  of  his  active  life,  dying  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls  at  the  age  of  sixty-seven.  He  married  Miss  Magdalena  Bieagal  and 
they  became  the  parents  of  eight  children. 

William  Durch  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Washington 
county  and  after  laving  aside  his  books  followed  farming  there  for  a short  time. 
In  the  fall  of  1862  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  locating  on  a farm  in  Bloomer 
township  which  is  yet  his  place  of  residence.  He  owns  two  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  of  valuable  land  in  the  town  of  Bloomer  which  he  has  improved  substantially 
in  the  course  of  years,  erecting  a comfortable  residence  and  good  barns  and  out- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


239 


buildings.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  since  1888  has  also 
operated  a water  power  saw  and  grist  mill.  All  of  his  interests  are  carefully 
and  capably  conducted  and  have  brought  him  a gratifying  measure  of  success. 

Mr.  Durch  married  Miss  Annie  C.  Rottgen  and  they  became  the  parents  of 
eleven  children,  seven  of  whom,  four  sons  and  three  daughters,  still  survive.  Mr. 
Durch  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  church  and  belongs  to  the  Catholic  Knights. 
He  is  independent  in  his  political  views  and  active  in  public  affairs,  having  served 
for  four  terms  as  township  assessor.  The  side  board  also  appointed  him  as  its 
chairman  to  serve  out  the  unexpired  term  of  a man  who  resigned  when  the  equal- 
izing was  done  in  the  town.  He  is  a man  of  many  sterling  traits  of  character,  able 
in  business,  progressive  in  citizenship  and  at  all  times  trustworthy  and  reliable. 


EDWARD  H.  COLEMAN. 


The  county  of  Chippewa  and  its  people  must  be  congratulated  upon  having 
such  efficient  public  servants  as  Edward  H.  Coleman,  who  now  fills  the  position 
of  justice  of  the  peace,  an  office  which  he  has  conducted  for  twenty  years,  and 
who  has  also  since  1909  been  public  administrator.  He  came  to  Chippewa  Falls 
on  September  12,  1857,  when  not  yet  sixteen  years  of  age,  being  a native  of  the 
east,  where  he  was  born  in  Rochester,  New  York,  on  December  26,  1841,  a son 
of  Henry  and  Persis  (Marshall)  Coleman.  The  father  was  prominent  in  his 
section  of  the  Empire  state,  where  he  was  owner  of  a large  lumber  company.  After 
coming  to  this  county  he  acted  as  the  first  municipal  judge  and  held  that  position 
until  his  death  in  1883.  He  is  buried  in  ChippewTa  Falls,  his  wife  surviving  him 
about  eleven  years,  passing  away  in  1894,  and  being  also  buried  there. 

Edward  H.  Coleman  received  his  education  principally  in  Rochester,  New  York, 
but  completed  the  same  in  Chippewa  Falls,  laying  aside  his  schoolbooks  at  the  age 
of  seventeen.  He  then  served  an  apprenticeship  as  clerk  in  a general  store  for  about 
three  years  and  the  following  three  years  he  spent  in  the  army.  At  the  end  of 
that  period  he  became  assistant  postmaster,  holding  that  office  for  two  years. 
For  a period  of  eighteen  years  he  then  engaged  in  lumber  cruising,  at  the  end 
.of  which  time  he  was  elected  city  clerk,  faithfully  and  efficiently  discharging  his 
duties  for  two  years’  and  being  elected,  on  the  expiration  of  his  term,  clerk  of 
the  county  court.  In  the  latter  capacity  he  served  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  public 
and  to  his  own  credit  for  four  years  and  then  became  city  auditor,  remaining  in 
that  office  for  two  years.  Since  1893  he  has  acted  as  justice  of  the  peace  and  has 
ever  given  such  impartial  and  justified  decisions  that  he  has  gained  a high  repu- 
tation among  his  fellow  citizens  for  legal  ability,  clearness  of  judgment  and  fair- 
ness of  character.  On  July  1,  1909,  Judge  Coleman  was  also  appointed  public- 
administrator,  doing  justice  to  his  added  duties  in  an  effective  and  circumspect 
way. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  on  June  20,  1880,  Judge  Coleman  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Mary  Bowe,  a daughter  of  Jeremiah  and  Ann  (McGuire)  P>owe,  both 
of  whom  are  deceased  and  buried  in  Fox  Lake.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Coleman  have 
had  four  children:  Henry  J.,  a well  known  lawyer  of  Billings,  Montana;  Alice, 


240 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


at  home;  Mary  P.,  who  died  in  1905,  and  is  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls;  and  Martha 
E.,  who  died  in  1891  and  is  also  buried  there. 

Judge  Coleman  is  very  deeply  interested  in  the  progress  and  welfare  of  his 
community  and  his  county  and  is  always  ready  to  give  of  his  means  and  ability 
in  the  support  of  worthy  public  objects.  In  his  political  views  he  is  a republican, 
in  the  principles  of  which  party  he  sincerely  believes  and  whose  candidates  and 
measures  he  ever  upholds.  His  faith  is  that  of  the  Presbyterian  church.  He 
is  a member  of  the  Grand  Army  of  the  Republic,  being  one  of  that  surviving  band 
of  patriots  who  willingly  gave  their  services  to  the  country  in  order  to  preserve 
the  unity  of  the  nation.  He  is  also  prominent  and  esteemed  in  the  Knights  of 
Pythias.  There  is  much  that  is  commendable  in  the  career  of  Edward  H.  Cole- 
man, for  he  has  given  an  example  in  various  public  positions  which  might  well 
be  emulated  by  others  in  official  life.  He  has  ever  placed  the  public’s  interests 
above  his  own  and  to  the  best  of  his  ability  has  discharged  his  duties,  becoming 
thereby  a factor  in  the  general  development  and  advancement  which  has  made 
this  one  of  the  most  prosperous  counties  of  the  state. 


ROBERT  E.  McKAY. 

Among  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Sigel  township,  Chippewa  county,  is  Robert 
E.  McKay,  who  owns  a profitable  farm  of  eighty  acres  on  section  8.  He  is  a native 
of  Michigan,  having  been  born  in  Saginaw,  May  18,  1848,  a son  of  Archibald 
and  Margaret  (McNanna)  McKay,  natives  of  Scotland.  The  father  was  born 
in  that  country,  in  Glasgow,  in  1813,  and  the  mother  in  1817.  Archibald  McKay 
was  a farmer  by  occupation  and  about  1833,  when  twenty  years  of  age,  came  to 
Michigan,  removing  to  Canada  about  two  years  later.  He  remained  in  Canada 
until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1883,  his  wife  surviving  him  for  about  four 
years,  passing  away  in  1887.  To  them  were  born  eleven  children:  Margaret; 

Archibald,  deceased;  William;  Robert  E.,  our  subject;  Charles,  deceased;  Char- 
lotte ; Joseph  ; Elizabeth,  deceased  ; and  three  who  died  in  infancy. 

Robert  E.  McKay  attended  school  in  Guelph,  Ontario,  until  fourteen  years  of 
age,  when  he  laid  aside  his  books  in  order  to  assist  with  the  work  on  the  home 
farm.  He  so  continued  for  about  four  years  and  then  went  into  the  woods,  finding 
employment  in  lumber  camps  and  drives  for  about  eight  years.  During  the  fol- 
lowing two  years  he  engaged  in  contracting  and  then  bought  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  of  timber  land,  cutting  the  trees  and  selling  the  lumber  and  later  the 
land.  This  enterprise  occupied  three  years.  Mr.  McKay  then  bought  eighty 
acres  on  section  31,  township  28,  range  6 west,  which  he  still  owns.  In  1881  he 
bought  the  eighty  acres  on  section  8,  township  29,  range  0 west,  which  he  now 
farms.  He  has  been  very  successful  in  the  cultivation  of  this  land  and  gives  con- 
siderable attention  to  stock-raising,  specializing  in  dairy  products.  He  keeps  about 
eighteen  head  of  cattle  and  ten  horses.  His  buildings  are  substantial  and  up-to-date 
and  his  farm  in  every  way  reflects  credit  upon  its  owner.  The  success  which  Mr. 
McKay  has  attained  is  largely  due  to  incessant  work  and  thorough,  modern 
methods.  His  stock  is  taken  care  of  in  the  best  possible  way  and  adds  largely 
to  the  income  Mr.  McKay  derives  from  his  farm. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


241 


Mr.  McKay  married  Miss  Margaret  St.  Martin,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Airs. 
Peter  St.  Martin,  the  former  a well  known  river  man  of  Chippewa  Falls.  Mrs. 
McKay,  a native  of  that  city,  was  born  October  15,  1856,  and  bore  her  husband 
eight  children : Annie  E.,  who  married  George  Barrington,  a lumberman  at 

Chippewa  Falls,  by  whom  she  had  three  children,  one  of  whom,  Lillian,  is  living; 
Mary  L.,  Margaret  R.  and  William  J.,  deceased;  Eva  C. ; George  A.;  Mildred  L., 
deceased;  and  Francis  R.  Miss  Eva  McKay  for  the  past  five  years  has  followed 
school  teaching. 

Mr.  McKay  is  one  of  the  most  highly  respected  citizens  of  Sigel  township  and 
has  ever  interested  himself  in  worthy  public  enterprises.  Politically  he  is  independ- 
ent,  preferring  to  follow  his  own  judgment  instead  of  blindly  following  party 
dictates.  He  is  the  oldest  member,  now  living,  of  the  county  board  of  Chippewa 
county,  and  it  was  he  who  was  largely  instrumental  in  building  good  roads  in 
Sigel  township.  For  ten  years  Mr.  McKay  was  chairman  of  the  board  of  trustees 
of  Sigel  township,  and  he  was  also  chairman  of  the  board  of  Anson  township  for 
one  term  and  supervisor  for  Anson  township  for  one  term.  For  six  years  he 
was  clerk  of  school  district  No.  9.  He  was  a member  of  the  Independent  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows,  but  on  account  of  the  distance  which  he  had  to  travel  to  attend 
the  lodge  meetings  he  demitted  in  good  standing.  He  is  a member  of  the  Catholic 
church  and  Mrs.  McKay  belongs  to  the  Ladies  Society  in  connection  with  that 
organization.  Mr.  McKay  is  a kind-hearted  man,  who  gives  evidence  of  his  char- 
itable inclinations  by  taking  care  of  four  children  besides  his  own  family,  keeping 
them  as  they  had  no  other  place  to  go  and  being  as  kind  to  them  as  a father  would 
be.  Such  success  as  has  come  to  Mr.  McKay  is  well  merited,  as  it  is  the  result 
of  incessant  industry  and  close  application,  and  the  esteem  and  respect  with  which 
he  is  regarded  comes  to  him  in  recognition  of  his  high  qualities  of  mind  and  char- 
acter. 


ALBERT  C.  CONRAD. 

Albert  C.  Conrad,  who  engages  in  general  farming,  dairying  and  sheep  raising 
upon  a fine  property  in  Bloomer  township  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  upon 
which  he  also  operates  a sawmill,  was  born  in  Germany  in  1868.  He  is  a son  of 
Albert  Conrad,  who  came  to  the  United  States  about  the  year  1871  locating  first 
in  Michigan.  He  later  moved  to  Wisconsin,  settling  in  Chippewa  county,  where 
he  followed  the  milling  business.  He  also  took  up  a homestead  claim,  the  land 
comprising  the  property  now  operated  by  his  son,  but  he  never  engaged  in  farming, 
dying  in  Bloomer,  at  the  age  of  seventy-four.  He  married  Miss  Julia  Lehman,  a 
daughter  of  John  Lehman,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  five  children,  all  of 
whom  survive. 

Albert  C.  Conrad  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  began  farming  upon  the  homestead,  the 
present  excellent  condition  of  which  is  entirely  due  to  his  careful  management 
and  practical  methods.  He  has  erected  a number  of  buildings  upon  the  place 
and  engages  in  general  farming,  dairying  and  sheep  raising,  having  made  all  of 
these  activities  profitable  sources  of  income  to  him.  In  1908  he  erected  a sawmill 
upon  his  place  and  he  also  operates  a threshing  outfit. 


242 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Conrad  married  Miss  Paulina  Bansmer,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  twelve  children,  John,  Ida,  Paul,  Leonard,  Harry,  Clara,  George,  Lillie,  Rosie, 
Jesse,  Albert  and  Lesley.  Mr.  Conrad  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and 
has  been  school  clerk  for  twelve  years  and  served  for  three  years  as  school  treas- 
urer. He  is  an  industrious  and  progressive  business  man  and  through  his  honesty 
and  integrity  has  become  very  successful  in  the  management  of  his  farm  and 
the  direction  of  his  business  interests,  standing  today  among  the  men  of  marked 
ability  and  substantial  worth  in  his  community. 


JOHN  SCHWAB. 

Bloomer  township  numbers  among  her  progressive  and  active  native  sons 
John  Schwab,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  three  hundred  and  seventy- 
four  acres  five  miles  northeast  of  Bloomer.  Upon  this  property  he  was  born 
March  3,  1863,  a son  of  John  Schwab,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the 
United  States  when  he  was  thirty  years  of  age  and  settled  in  Wisconsin,  locating 
for  the  first  few  years  in  the  southern  part  of  the  state.  He  afterward  moved 
to  Chippewa  county  and  followed  farming  in  this  section  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  when  he  was  sixty-three  years  of  age.  He  married  in  this  county  and 
had  five  children,  three  of  whom  are  still  living. 

John  Schwab  acquired  his  education  in  district  school  No.  3 and  after  laying 
aside  his  books  began  working  upon  the  homestead,  which  is  now  his  property. 
It  comprises  three  hundred  and  seventy-four  acres  of  excellent  land  and  the 
improvements  now  upon  the  place  have  all  been  made  by  Mr.  Schwab,  who  under- 
stands farming  in  principle  and  detail  and  in  his  agricultural  pursuits  has  met 
with  that  success  which  always  follows  earnest  and  persistent  labor.  He  engages 
in  general  farming  and  conducts  also  a large  dairy,  which  is  an  important  source 
of  income  to  him. 

Mr.  Schwab  married  Miss  Mary  Bishel,  and  they  have  five  children,  Philip, 
Mary,  Jacob,  Lena  and  Julia.  Mr.  Schwab  is  a member  of  the  populist  party 
and  his  religious  views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Roman  Catholic 
church.  His  life  has  been  one  of  well  directed  activity,  resulting  in  the  attain- 
ment of  a gratifying  measure  of  success,  and  wherever  he  is  known  he  is  respected 
and  esteemed  by  reason  of  his  genuine  worth. 


GILBERT  EYK. 

Gilbert  Eyk  is  a representative  of  one  of  the  best  known  pioneer  families  in 
Chippewa  county  and  has  won  individual  prominence  as  the  owner  of  Brookside 
Farm,  Auburn  township,  a fine  property  which  owes  its  attractiveness  and  value 
entirely  to  his  well  directed  efforts  and  practical  methods.  Lie  was  born  on  the 
old  Eyk  homestead,  two  miles  west  of  his  present  farm  in  1867,  a son  of  Ole 
P.  Eyk,  a native  of  Norway.  The  father  came  to  America  in  1866  and  was  the 
first  settler  in  that  part  of  Chippewa  county.  In  Norway  he  had  followed  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


243 


saw  milling  and  mercantile  business,  but  after  taking  up  his  residence  here  turned 
his  attention  to  farming,  homesteading  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  upon 
which  he  continued  to  reside  until  his  death.  He  married  Miss  Anna  Paulson, 
who  survives  him,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  five  daughters  and  five  sons 
of  whom  two  have  passed  away. 

Gilbert  Eyk  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county, 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  moved  to  Superior,  this  state,  where  he  remained 
three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  went  to  the  Pacific  coast  and  settled  in 
Oregon  where  he  homesteaded  land  and  where  he  worked  at  farming,  lumbering 
and  prospecting  for  fifteen  years  thereafter.  When  he  left  Oregon  he  returned 
to  Chippewa  county  and  purchased  from  his  sister  the  farm  upon  which  he  still 
resides.  This  comprises  eighty  acres  of  fine  land  lying  four  miles  southwest  of 
New  Auburn  and  in  its  cultivation  Mr.  Eyk  has  always  followed  the  most  practical 
methods  so  that  Brookside  Farm  has  become  a valuable  and  productive  property. 
The  owner  has  made  extensive  improvements  upon  it,  erecting  a modern  barn 
and  silo  and  keeps  everything  about  the  place  in  excellent  condition.  General 
farming  and  dairying  engage  his  attention  and  both  branches  of  his  activities  have 
brought  him  well  deserved  success. 

Mr.  Eyk  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  interested 
in  public  affairs  although  not  active  as  an  office  seeker.  He  is  superintendent  of 
the  local  Sunday  school,  which  is  under  the  control  of  the  Presbyterian  church. 
A man  of  exemplary  character  he  has  become  widely  and  favorably  known  in 
his  locality  and  his  record  is  a credit  to  a name  that  has  long  been  an  honored  one 
in  this  county. 


EVERARD  L.  AINSWORTH. 

Everard  L.  Ainsworth,  a native  of  Vermont,  came  to  Chippewa  county  in 
1888  from  Alma,  Wisconsin,  this  state,  and  has  now  resided  in  Chippewa  Falls 
for  over  twenty-five  years,  occupying  an  important  position  as  secretary  of  the 
American  Immigration  Company,  with  offices  on  the  corner  of  Bay  and  West 
River  streets,  this  city.  He  was  born  in  Roxbury,  in  the  Green  Mountain  state, 
in  May,  1854,  and  is  a son  of  Luther  and  Betsy  (Silsbv)  Ainsworth,  both  of 
whom  have  passed  away.  The  father  was  one  of  those  who  took  up  arms  in 
defense  of  the  Union  and  fell  on  the  battlefield  of  Chancellorsville  in  1863, 
finding  his  last  resting  place  at  Fredericksburg,  Virginia.  He  was  a captain  of 
Company  H of  the  Sixth  Vermont  Regiment.  The  mother  had  preceded  him 
in  death,  her  demise  occurring  in  1858,  when  our  subject  was  but  four  years 
of  age.  She  is  buried  in  Roxbury,  Vermont. 

Everard  L.  Ainsworth  received  his  education  in  Roxbury,  remaining  there 
until  fifteen  years  of  age,  when  he  entered  the  Randolph  State  Normal  School 
at  Randolph  Center,  Vermont,  preparing  himself  for  the  teaching  profession, 
and  leaving  this  institution  at  the  age  of  eighteen,  he  was  actively  engaged  as 
school  teacher  and  so  continued  for  six  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  became 
connected  with  the  Mississippi  Logging  Conipany,  of  which  he  is  now  assistant 
secretary.  In  later  years  he  has  become  connected  with  the  American  Immigra- 


244 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


tion  Company,  of  which  he  serves  as  secretary,  doing  highly  effective  work  in  this 
position.  He  also  is  president  of  the  Hannah  Rutledge  Home  for  the  Aged  and 
president  of  the  Edward  Rutledge  Charity  Corporation,  which  is  a one  million 
dollar  institution,  this  large  sum  of  money  for  its  founding  being  left  by  Edward 
Rutledge.  Mr.  Ainsworth  has  done  highly  practical  and  largely  beneficial  work 
in  this  connection,  for  which  he  is  well  fitted  on  account  of  his  talents  for  organi- 
zation and  because  of  that  humane  spirit  which  always  moves  him  to  come  to 
the  rescue  of  those  who  need  help  or  assistance. 

In  Buffalo  county,  Wisconsin,  in  September,  1879,  Mr.  Ainsworth  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Ella  Fuller,  a daughter  of  Stephen  G.  and  Sarah  (Woodard) 
Fuller,  the  latter  of  whom  died  in  1900,  while  the  former  now  makes  his  home 
with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ainsworth.  They  have  four  children : Bessie  A.,  a high 

school  teacher  at  Chippewa  Falls ; May,  who  married  E.  R.  Frissell,  a prominent 
real-estate  dealer  and  attorney-at-law  of  Minneapolis,  Minnesota;  Charles  L., 
a lumber  grader  connected  with  the  Potlatch  Lumber  Company  of  Potlatch,  Idaho, 
and  a graduate  of  the  law  department  of  the  University  of  Minnesota  at  Minne- 
apolis ; and  Edward  A.,  a senior  in  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Ainsworth  live  at  No.  818  West  Columbia  street,  Chippewa  Falls,  in  a hand- 
some residence  which  the  former  has  recently  rebuilt,  equipping  the  house  with 
all  modern  conveniences.  There  both  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ainsworth  often  entertain 
their  many  friends,  who  delight  to  gather  at  their  hospitable  fireside. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Ainsworth  is  a republican,  and  although  he  has 
never  cared  for  public  office,  he  takes  a deep  interest  in  the  public  welfare, 
as  is  directly  evident  from  his  connection  with  the  Rutledge  institutions.  Fra- 
ternally he  is  a member  of  the  Masonic  order,  belonging  to  the  local  blue  lodge, 
and  ever  exemplifies  in  his  life  the  tenets  of  brotherly  love  which  are  the  basic 
principles  of  that  great  organization.  Mr.  Ainsworth  typifies  in  his  life  the 
highest  degree  of  American  citizenship,  doing  in  a quiet  way  much  which  works 
out  to  the  benefit  of  his  city  and  county. 


J.  B.  PIOTROWSKI. 

A spirit  of  enterprise  and  progress  has  actuated  J.  B.  Piotrowski  in  all  the 
activities  of  his  career  and  has  brought  him  today  to  a place  among  the  able 
and  successful  men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  where  as  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the 
Chippewa  Shoe  Manufacturing  Company  he  occupies  a prominent  position  in 
business  circles.  He  is  of  Polish  extraction  and  was  born  in  West  Prussia, 
Germany,  July  9,  1877,  a son  of  Marion  and  Rose  (Scheffler)  Piotrowski.  The 
father  is  now  a shoemaker  in  the  concern  of  which  his  son  is  secretary  and 
treasurer. 

J.  B.  Piotrowski  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Berlin,  Wis- 
consin, and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years.  His  first  employ- 
ment was  with  the  Putnam  Shoe  Company  in  Berlin  and  he  retained  this 
position  until  1895,  when  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  has  since  resided. 
For  some  time  thereafter  he  acted  as  manager  of  the  Weyenberg  Shoe  Manu- 
facturing Company  but  in  1901  he  joined  John  M.  Andrejeski  in  the  foundation 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


247 


of  a concern  of  a similar  kind.  They  carried  on  the  business  as  a copartnership 
until  1911,  when  the  enterprise  was  incorporated  under  the  name  of  the  Chip- 
pewa Shoe  Manufacturing  Company,  Mr.  Piotrowski  being  elected  secretary 
and  treasurer.  Through  their  united  efforts  the  partners  have  made  many  sub- 
stantial contributions  to  the  progress  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  have  here  built  up 
an  industrial  concern  which  has  become  one  of  the  largest  and  most  important 
of  its  kind  in  the  city.  Mr.  Piotrowski’s  energy,  resourcefulness  and  business 
ability  have  been  important  factors  in  the  attainment  of  this  result  and  he  him- 
self is  considered  a valuable  addition  to  the  ranks  of  the  city’s  progressive  and 
able  business  men. 

Mr.  Piotrowski  resides  with  his  parents  at  No.  3 North  Rural  street.  He  is 
connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters,  the  United  Com- 
mercial Travelers  and  the  Knights  of  Columbus.  He  is  a democrat  in  his  polit- 
ical beliefs  and  is  at  present  serving  as  alderman  and  supervisor,  his  influence 
being  always  on  the  side  of  right,  reform  and  progress.  His  has  been  an  excel- 
lent official  record  and  in  business  circles  he  has  made  for  himself  an  enviable 
position,  being  classed  among  Chippewa  Falls’  most  popular  and  representative 
citizens. 


HENRY  A.  CASPER. 

Among  the  well  known  and  successful  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  Wis- 
consin, is  Henry  A.  Casper,  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  J.  Leinenkugel  Brew- 
ing Company  and  president  of  the  Consolidated  Elevator,  Mill  & Power  Company. 
In  connection  with  the  former  position  he  has  practically  entire  charge  of  the 
management  of  the  Leinenkugel  brewery.  Mr.  Casper  was  born  in  Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin,  on  July  15,  1861,  of  German  parents.  The  father,  Alois  A.  Casper, 
is  a native  of  Alsace-Lorraine,  which  at  the  time  of  his  birth  belonged  to  France 
but  is  now  a part  of  Germany.  The  mother  in  her  maidenhood  was  Barbara 
Woelfel,  a native  of  Bavaria.  About  sixty  years  ago  the  father  emigrated  to 
America,  the  mother  following  two  years  later,  coming  to  Milwaukee,  where 
they  were  married.  For  many  years  Alois  Casper  was  well  known  in  that  city 
as  a merchant  tailor  but  he  retired  from  business  about  ten  years  ago.  Both  he 
and  his  wife  are  still  living.  They  have  a family  of  six  children. 

Henry  A.  Casper,  in  the  acquirement  of  his  education,  attended  St.  Mary’s 
parochial  school  in  Milwaukee  and  St.  Gall's  school,  studying  at  a business  col- 
lege in  the  evenings.  When  old  enough  he  entered  his  father’s  tailoring  and 
men’s  furnishing  store  as  a clerk,  remaining  with  him  for  about  fifteen  years.  He 
then  came  to  Chippewa,  accepting  the  position  of  vice  president  with  the  Leinen- 
kugel Brewing  Company.  In  1909  he  was  elected  secretary  and  treasurer  and 
has  since  practically  had  charge  of  the  management  of  these  brewing  interests. 
Mr.  Casper  is  thoroughly  acquainted  with  all  the  details  of  the  business  and  has 
done  much  toward  its  upbuilding.  Not  only  is  he  a shrewd,  able  and  farsighted 
business  man  but  he  is  congenial  and  of  agreeable  disposition,  easily  making 
friends,  and  his  affability  has  often  stood  him  in  good  stead  in  business  trans- 
actions. He  also  holds  the  position  of  president  of  the  Consolidated  Elevator, 


248 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mill  & Power  Company,  carefully  supervising  the  important  interests  of  this 
large  concern. 

On  April  1 8,  1894,  in  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin,  at  the  St.  Charles  Catholic 
church,  Mr.  Casper  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Rose,  daughter  of  Jacob  and 
Josephine  Leinenkugel,  of  whom  more  extended  mention  is  made  on  other  pages 
of  this  history.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Casper  have  two  children,  Irene  and  William. 
The  parents  are  faithful  attendants  at  St.  Charles  Catholic  church  and  frater- 
nally Mr.  Casper  is  affiliated  with  the  Catholic  Knights  of  America.  He  is  inde- 
pendent as  regards  political  matters,  voting  for  men  and  measures  according  to 
his  own  judgment  instead  of  following  party  dictates.  While  he  has  attained 
individual  success  and  has  become  recognized  as  one  of  the  foremost  business 
men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  he  has  contributed  his  part  toward  general  advancement 
and  can  ever  be  found  ready  to  give  of  his  time  and  money  for  movements  which 
are  undertaken  for  the  benefit  of  the  general  public. 


RUFUS  JOHNSON. 

Rufus  Johnson,  who  passed  away  on  the  16th  of  October,  1906,  was  one  of 
the  early  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and  for  a number  of  years  successfully  car- 
ried on  general  agricultural  pursuits  here,  owning  a farm  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  on  section  20,  township  30,  range  6.  His  birth  occurred  in  Cortland 
county.  New  York,  on  the  8th  of  June,  1842,  his  father  being  J.  B.  Johnson.  He 
spent  his  boyhood  and  early  manhood  in  the  Empire  State  and  was  there  married 
to  Miss  Helen  Brown,  who  was  born  in  Chenango  county,  New  York,  on  the  30th 
of  January,  1842. 

In  1872,  when  a young  man  of  thirty  years,  he  determined  to  establish  his 
home  in  the  Badger  state  and  traveled  from  Binghamton,  New  York,  to  Eau  Claire 
by  rail,  thence  coming  to  Chippewa  Falls  by  stage,  where  he  hired  Jim  Woodruff 
to  take  him  to  Arthur  township  with  a span  of  mules.  He  located  on  a timber 
tract  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  20,  township  30,  range  6,  not  a 
tree  having  been  cut  except  perhaps  a few  pines  that  had  been  taken  away  surrep- 
titiously. No  road  led  to  the  place,  but  on  the  Monday  morning  following  his 
arrival  here  Mr.  Johnson  began  to  cut  down  trees  preparatory  to  making  the 
highway  which  now  adjoins  the  home.  He  also  built  a log  cabin  which  is  still 
standing  and  is  now  used  for  a hen  house.  Subsequently  he  erected  the  frame 
residence  which  has  remained  the  family  home  to  the  present  time.  Throughout 
his  active  business  career  he  devoted  his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits, 
winning  success  and  gaining  recognition  as  one  of  the  substantial  and  respected 
citizens  of  his  community.  The  period  of  his  residence  in  this  county  covered  more 
than  a third  of  a century,  and  he  was  a pioneer  whose  labors  contributed  in  no 
uncertain  measure  to  the  work  of  agricultural  development  and  progress  here. 
His  widow  still  resides  on  the  old  family  homestead,  which  is  now  the  property 
of  her  son  Erwin. 

To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Johnson  were  born  four  children,  as  follows:  Luona,  who 
is  the  wife  of  Charles  Smith  and  resides  in  Idaho  ; Ralph,  who  is  successfully 
engaged  in  farming  in  Arthur  township ; Erwin,  who  is  the  owner  of  the  old 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


249 


home  farm  and  who  wedded  Miss  Vesta  Eastman,  a daughter  of  Daniel  Eastman, 
of  Chippewa  county;  and  Mary,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  H.  W.  Gardner, 
of  Arthur  township.  The  sons  are  well  known  and  enterprising  agriculturists  of 
the  locality  and  have  an  extensive  circle  of  friends  there. 


EZRA  F.  SHIPMAN. 

Ezra  F.  Shipman,  who  for  many  years  has  been  associated  in  an  influential 
way  with  farming  and  dairy  interests  of  Bloomer  township,  owns  and  operates 
eighty  acres  three  miles  east  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  upon  this  property  in 
1859  and  is  a son  of  Charles  Shipman,  a native  of  Pennsylvania,  who  came  to 
Wisconsin  as  a young  man,  locating  in  Sauk  county.  He  afterward  moved  to 
Missouri  but  in  1857  returned  to  this  state,  settling  in  Chippewa  county,  where 
he  followed  farming  until  his  death,  passing  away  at  the  age  of  seventy-nine. 
He  married  Miss  Amanda  George  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  chil- 
dren: L.  D.,  who  has  passed  away;  Mrs.  Mary  Tallman;  and  Ezra  F.,  of  this 

review. 

Ezra  F.  Shipman  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  began  farming  on  the  home  place, 
which  he  has  since  operated.  He  assisted  in  erecting  the  buildings  upon  the 
property  and  has  made  other  substantial  improvements,  his  farm  being  today 
productive  and  valuable.' 

Mr.  Shipman  married  Miss  Nora  Ward,  a daughter  of  Jerry  Ward,  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children : Charles,  who 

married  Miss  May  Webb,  by  whom  he  has  a daughter,  Inez;  and  Irene,  who  mar- 
ried Percy  Gorton,  by  whom  she  has  two  sons,  Elmer  and  Edgar.  Fraternally 
Mr.  Shipman  is  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he  is 
a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  having  served  as  town  clerk  and  a member 
of  the  town  board.  He  is  held  in  high  regard  throughout  Chippewa  county  and 
has  an  extensive  and  representative  circle  of  friends. 


CHARLES  F.  ALTHANS. 

Charles  Fs,  Althans  is  living  retired  after  fourteen  years  of  close  connection 
with  business  interests  of  Bloomer  as  part  owner  of  the  Bloomer  Brewery.  He 
was  born  in  Iowa  in  1859  and  is  a son  of  C.  F.  Althans,  a native  of  Germany,  who 
came  to  the  United  States  in  1851,  locating  first  in  Philadelphia,  Pennsylvania. 
There  he  engaged  as  a painter  for  some  time,  moving  thence  to  Quincy,  Illinois, 
and  later  to  Keokuk,  Iowa,  where  he  published  a republican  newspaper  during 
the  Civil  war.  In  1869  he  moved  to  Alma,  Wisconsin,  and  he  died  in  Eau  Claire, 
this  state,  in  1891,  when  he  was  sixty-six  years  of  age.  He  married  in  Phila- 
delphia Miss  H.  Pfeiffer  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children:  Charles 

F. ,  of  this  review;  Charles  W.,  a resident  of  St.  Paul,  Minnesota;  and  Mrs. 

G.  Walker,  of  Nelson,  Wisconsin. 


250 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


After  acquiring  a public-school  education  Charles  F.  Althans  worked  in  the 
sawmills  'until  1873  when  he  learned  the  tinner’s  trade  which  he  followed  in 
various  parts  of  the  middle  west  until  1898.  In  the  latter  year  he  moved  to 
Bloomer  and  formed  a partnership  with  Valentine  Schon  in  the  operation  of  the 
Bloomer  Brewery.  For  fourteen  years  thereafter  he  continued  his  connection 
with  this  concern  and  his  business  ability,  energy  and  sound  judgment  proved 
helpful  factors  in  its  success.  In  November,  1912,  he  disposed  of  his  interests 
in  it  and  has  since  lived  in  retirement,  enjoying  a period  of  rest  and  leisure  as 
a reward  of  his  well  directed  labor  in  the  past. 

Mr.  Althans  was  married  to  Miss  Amelia  Rieck  in  1882  and  in  1883  a daugh- 
ter was  born  to  them  who  is  now  married  and  living  at  Detroit,  Michigan.  His 
first  wife  died  in  1905  and  in  1906  Mr.  Althans  was  married  to  Miss  Lena  Bischel 
of  Bloomer.  Mr.  Althans  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  served 
as  president  of  the  village  board  for  two  terms.  Fraternally  he  is  connected 
with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  has  been  identified  with  this 
organization  for  a quarter  of  a century.  He  is  comfortably  situated  in  life,  enjoy- 
ing a well  earned  rest  which  has  been  secured  through  his  intelligently  directed 
activity  in  former  years. 


JOHN  PHILLIPS. 

Among  the  best  known  and  most  representative  citizens  of  Stanley,  is  num- 
bered John  Phillips,  who  for  many  years  has  conducted  a photographic  studio 
in  the  city.  During  the  period  of  his  residence  he  has  also  taken  an  active  part 
in  public  affairs,  holding  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  and  he  has 
moreover,  a creditable  and  honorable  military  record.  He  was  born  in  Baltimore, 
Maryland,  on  the  25th  of  December,  1844,  and  is  a son  of  James  and  Frances 
(Price)  Phillips,  the  former  born  in  Chester  county,  Pennsylvania,  in  1812  and 
the  latter  in  Priceville,  Maryland,  in  1818.  The  father,  a carpenter  and  con- 
tractor by  occupation,  moved  to  Iowa  in  pioneer  times  and  was  killed  there  in 
1854.  His  wife  survived  him  many  years,  dying  in  1885.  To  their  union  were 
born  three  children:  John,  James  and  Eli. 

John  Phillips  was  educated  in  the  public  schools,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the 
age  of  fifteen.  He  afterward  studied  photography  and  at  a very  early  date  estab- 
lished a gallery  in  Stanley  of  which  he  has  since  been  proprietor.  For  a time 
he  left  this  in  charge  of  his  wife  and  eldest  son,  he  himself  engaging  in  railroad- 
ing as  a brakeman,  conductor  and  engineer  on  a number  of  western  roads.  He 
was  employed  on  the  Chicago,  Burlington  & Quincy  when  the  company  owned 
only  seventy-five  miles  of  road  between  Burlington  and  Ottumwa  and  he  assisted 
in  the  making  of  a great  deal  of  railroad  history.  He  retired  from  this  work  in 
1894  and  for  four  years  thereafter  was  upon  the  road  as  a salesman.  Since  1900 
however  he  has  maintained  a continuous  residence  in  Stanley,  devoting  all  of  his 
time  to  the  conduct  of  his  photographic  studio..  He  controls  an  extensive  and 
representative  patronage,  for  his  work  is  of  the  highest  quality  and  Ijis  business 
methods  always  honorable  and  straightforward. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


251 


In  Fort  Madison,  Iowa,  on  the  7th  of  April,  1870,  Mr.  Phillips  married  Miss 
Ellen  Brown,  a daughter  of  William  and  Elizabeth  (Lind)  Brown,  the  former  a 
commission  merchant  of  Burlington,  Iowa.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Phillips  became  the 
parents  of  four  children.  Wellington  J.  is  a photographer  at  Red  Wing,  Minne- 
sota. He  married  Miss  Mary  L.  Brooke  and  they  have  six  children.  Frantz  H. 
is  a photographer  in  Stanley.  He  married  Miss  Clara  Dolmer  who  died  in  1909, 
leaving  two  children:  Francis  H.  and  John  D.  Clarence  C.  is  a sales  manager 

in  St.  Paul,  Minnesota.  He  married  Miss  Estella  Moore  and  they  have  two  chil- 
dren: Linden  and  Harry.  Frances  H.,  youngest  child  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs. 

Phillips,  is  the  wife  of  Allen  U.  Johnson,  the  manager  of  the  Biscayne  Bay  Yracht 
Club  at  Miami,  Florida. 

Mr.  Phillips  was  a member  of  Company  H,  Second  Berdans,  a regiment  of 
sharp  shooters,  and  served  for  eight  months.  Upon  the  organization  of  the 
first  Minnesota  National  Guard  he  joined  Company  G and  served  seven  years  and 
seven  months.  He  was  afterward  captain  of  Company  L,  Fourth  Minnesota 
Volunteers,  and  went  to  the  front  during  the  Spanish-American  war,  his  entire 
term  of  service  covering  four  years.  He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masons, 
the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he  is 
very  prominent  in  the  affairs  of  the  N.  W.  P.  A.,  a photographers’  association, 
of  which  he  has  served  as  president,  vice-president  and  secretary,  holding  each 
office  for  many  years.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party 
and  has  held  important  offices,  serving  for  one  term  as  alderman  of  a city  in 
Wabasha  county,  Minnesota,  and  for  five  years  as  chief  of  the  fire  department. 
He  was  city  clerk  of  Stanley  for  one  term  and  judge  of  the  police  court  for  six 
years  and  since  1911  he  has  done  excellent  work  as  justice  of  the  peace  and  notary 
public.  His  interests  have  extended  to  many  fields  touching  closely  the  business 
and  political  life  of  Stanley,  and  during  the  long  period  of  his  residence  here  he 
has  made  the  name  of  “Captain”  Phillips,  by  which  he  is  generally  known,  a 
synonym  for  upright  living  and  straightforward  dealing. 


FRANK  J.  THOMPSON. 

Frank  J.  Thompson,  who  operates  the  Simon  Christianson  farm  of  two  hun- 
dred acres  in  Auburn  township  is  a native  of  Wisconsin,  born  in  Eau  Claire  in 
1884.  He  is  a son  of  Walter  Thompson,  a native  of  England  who  came  to  the 
United  States  when  he  was  twenty-four  years  of  age  and  located  in  Eau  Claire 
where  he  engaged  in  the  milling  business  for  many  years.  He  now  follows  the 
same  occupation  in  Washington  state. 

Frank  J.  Thompson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire 
and  in  the  district  schools  of  the  county.  He  was  reared  upon  his  father’s  farm 
becoming  early  familiar  with  the  details  of  its  operation  and  when  he  laid  aside 
his  books  he  assumed  entire  charge  of  the  homestead  which  he  continued  to 
develop  until  1909.  In  that  year  he  married  and  moved  upon  the  farm  which  he 
now  operates.  He  expects,  however,  to  return  to  the  home  place  on  Sand  Creek 
in  a short  time. 


252 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Thompson  married  Miss'  Caroline  Christianson,  a daughter  of  Simon 
Christianson,  a native  of  Norway.  The  father  learned  the  carpenter’s  trade  in 
that  country  and  has  followed  it  continuously  since  coming  to  America  with  the 
exception  of  two  years  during  which  he  engaged  in  farming  and  lumbering.  He 
has  three  children:  Caroline,  wife  of  the  subject  of  this  review;  Gena,  who  is 
engaged  in  teaching ; and  George,  a carpenter. 

Politically  Mr.  Thompson  is  identified  with  the  republican  party  and  he  served 
for  some  time  as  town  constable.  He  is  a devout  adherent  of  the  Presbyterian 
church.  Although  still  a young  man  he  is  already  ranked  among  the  substantial 
farmers  of  his  locality  and  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  associ- 
ated with  him. 


JOHN  A.  BROOKS. 

John  A.  Brooks,  prominently  connected  with  industrial  interests  of  Chippewa 
Falls  as  manager  of  the  Chippewa  Sugar  Company,  was  born  in  Watertown,  Wis- 
consin, December  n,  1878.  He  is  a son  of  Joseph  Brooks,  a pioneer  farmer  of 
Dodge  county. 

Mr.  Brooks  acquired  his  education  at  Sacred  Heart  College,  Watertown,  Wis- 
consin, from  which  he  was  graduated  in  1896.  He  afterward  taught  school  for 
two  years  and  in  1901  became  connected  with  the  Wisconsin  Sugar  Company  as 
stenographer.  His  ability  won  him  rapid  advancement  and  he  rose  through 
department  after  department,  gaining  recognition  as  a reliable,  trustworthy  and 
thoroughly  competent  man.  He  learned  the  sugar  business  in  principle  and  detail 
and  in  1909  was  made  manager  of  the  Chippewa  Sugar  Company  at  Chippewa 
Falls.  In  addition  he  is  president  of  the  Citizens  Home  Land  Company  of  that 
city. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  24th  of  September,  1906,  Mr.  Brooks  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Jennie  E.  Goddard,  daughter  of  postmaster  Harry  J.  Goddard. 
Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Brooks  a daughter,  Mary,  was  born  on  May  3,  1910.  The 
family  residence  is  located  at  616  Coleman  street  and  is  one  of  the  attractive 
homes  of  the  city.  Although  one  of  the  later  residents  in  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr. 
Brooks  has  already  become  recognized  as  one  of  the  city’s  leading  business  men 
and  his  ability  and  progressive  spirit  insure  his  continued  advancement. 


ALFRED  M.  BERG. 

Among  the  prosperous  business  men  of  Stanley,  Wisconsin,  is  Alfred  M.  Berg, 
who  there  conducts  a modern  and  up-to-date  drug  store.  lie  is  a native  of  Eau 
Claire,  Wisconsin,  being  born  June  18,  1875,  and  a son  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ole  Berg, 
natives  of  Norway,  in  which  country  the  father  was  born  in  1841.  When  about 
twenty  years  of  age  he  came  to  Wisconsin  and  followed  his  trade,  which  was  that 
of  machinist.  The  mother  passed  away  in  1879,  when  our  subject  was  only  four 
years  of  age.  He  and  his  sister,  Palma,  are  the  children  of  this  union. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


253 


Alfred  M.  Berg  received  his  education  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  he 
attended  school  until  eighteen  years  of  age,  when  he  accepted  a position  in  a 
drug  store,  where  for  ten  years  he  remained  as  clerk.  He  then  set  up  in  business 
independently  and  in  1906  came  to  Stanley,  where  he  bought  a drug  store.  Con- 
tinuous success  has  been  his  and  he  does  today  a large  and  profitable  business. 
He  carries  not  only  all  the  regular  lines  of  medical  goods  and  medicines  but  also 
has  an  extensive  stock  of  sundries  and  has  the  agency  for  the  Eastman  kodaks 
and  cameras.  His  stock  is  valued  today  at  four  thousand  dollars  and  his  store 
is  well  appointed  and  modernly  equipped.  He  has  gained  a high  reputation  in 
the  city  and  the  surrounding  country  for  his  honest  dealing,  and  his  customers 
are  ever  assured  of  the  best  and  most  courteous  treatment. 

On  June  26,  1907,  Mr.  Berg  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Pearl  Flick,  a 
daughter  of  Mrs.  Laura  Flick,  of  Augusta,  Wisconsin,  the  marriage  taking  place 
in  that  city.  The  family  are  adherents  of  the  Presbyterian  faith,  although  they 
are  not  members  of  that  church.  Mr.  Berg  is  a member  of  the  Order  of  Beavers 
and  the  Sons  of  Norway.  He  owns  his  residence,  where  both  he  and  his  wife  often 
entertain  a large  circle  of  friends.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  repub- 
lican party,  inclining  towards  the  progressive  wing  of  that  organization.  Mr. 
Berg  is  a public-spirited  man  in  the  best  sense  of  the  word,  ever  interested  in 
movements  undertaken  on  behalf  of  the  general  welfare.  He  is  highly  respected 
in  business  and  social  circles  and  has  made  many  friends  who  esteem  him  for  his 
high  qualities  of  mind  and  character. 


HON.  CLARENCE  B.  CULBERTSON. 

Not  only  is  the  Hon.  Clarence  B.  Culbertson  one  of  the  foremost  and  most 
successful  lawyers  of  Chippewa  county,  maintaining  offices  at  Stanley,  this  state, 
but  he  has  attained  prominence  along  political  lines,  serving  in  various  important 
offices  in  connection  with  the  county  and  state  government.  He  was  born  in 
Edinboro,  Pennsylvania,  on  October  17,  1869,  a son  of  Charles  W.  and  Mary 
(Barber)  Culbertson.  The  father  was  born  in  the  same  city  on  September  12, 
1839,  and  was  a lumberman  and  a farmer.  He  came  to  Augusta,  Wisconsin,  in 
1872  and  there  made  his  home  until  his  death,  which  took  place  in  1910.  The 
mother  was  born  in  New  York  state  in  1847  ar*d  now  makes  her  home  in  Wilmette, 
near  Chicago,  Illinois.  In  their  family  were  four  children  : Clarence,  Andrew, 

Tra  and  Bernice. 

Clarence  B.  Culbertson  was  educated  in  the  Augusta  high  school,  from  which 
he  graduated  in  1888.  He  then  attended  the  University  of  Wisconsin  at  Madison, 
receiving  his  law  degree  in  1894  and  being  admitted  to  the  bar  of  the  state  at 
Madison  in  the  same  year,  where  he  began  practice  in  partnership  with  General 
Griffen,  continuing  in  that  relationship  for  nine  months.  He  then  came  to  Stanley 
and  opened  an  office  here  in  1895,  having  ever  since  continued  in  the  practice  of 
his  profession  with  ever  increasing  success. 

Mr.  Culbertson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Lillian  McCaffery,  a daughter 
of  James  and  Margaret  (Durgan)  McCaffery,  of  Augusta,  Wisconsin,  the  cere- 
mony taking  place  in  that  city  on  September  18,  1895.  Mr.  McCaffery  is  a miller 


254 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


by  trade  and  prominent  in  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Culbertson  became  the  parents 
of  three  children;  Charles  D.;  Clarence  B.,  who  died  in  infancy;  and  James  G. 

Mr.  Culbertson  is  a republican  in  his  political  views  and  has  ever  taken  a 
laudable  interest  in  public  affairs.  For  sixteen  years  he  served  as  city  attorney 
of  Stanley  and  for  eight  years  was  county  supervisor.  He  was  city  attorney  at 
the  time  when  the  village  adopted  the  city  organization  and  did  much  important 
work  in  that  connection.  He  also  served  as  district  attorney  of  Chippewa  county 
and  as  a member  of  the  state  legislature.  While  a representative  in  the  lower 
house  he  was  one  of  the  committee  that  framed  the  workingmen’s  compensation  act, 
which  was  passed  and  adopted  in  Wisconsin  and  which  since  has  been  adopted 
by  a number  of  other  states  in  the  Union.  Mr.  Culbertson  has  beside  his  important 
law  practice  other  interests,  being  a stockholder  in  several  local  business  corpora- 
tions. He  owns  a beautiful  and  commodious  residence  in  Stanley,  where  the 
family  make  their  home.  He  also  has  farm  holdings  in  Chippewa  and  Taylor 
counties.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  he 
is  also  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the  Modern 
Woodmen  of  America.  Mr.  Culbertson  is  one  of  the  foremost  citizens  of  Stanley 
and  the  county,  having  attained  a remarkable  degree  of  success  along  various  lines 
of  endeavor.  While  promoting  his  own  interests,  he  is  thoughtful  of  those  of 
others  and  always  takes  into  consideration  how  his  actions  will  affect  the  general 
welfare.  A faithful  public  official,  a good  politician,  a forceful  lawyer  and  an 
upright  man,  Hon.  Clarence  B.  Culbertson  enjoys  the  high  esteem  and  full  con- 
fidence of  all  those  who  have  been  brought  into  contact  with  him, 


JOHN  HAAG. 

John  Haag  is  honored  as  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war  and  is  respected  also  as 
a man  who  by  his  own  determination,  honesty  and  industry  has  worked  his  way 
upward  to  a place  among  the  representative  citizens  and  prosperous  farmers  of 
Chippewa  county.  He  was  born  in  Germany,  November  27,  1841,  and  is  a son 
of  George  A.  and  Rosina  K.  (Schmidt)  Haag,  natives  of  that  county,  the  former 
born  August  8,  1804,  and  the  latter,  July  4,  1800.  The  father  was  a farmer 
and  a shepherd  in  his  native  country  and  had  an  excellent  record  of  six  years 
service  in  the  regular  army.  He  came  with  his  family  to  Washington  county, 
this  state,  in  1854  in  a sailing  vessel,  the  trip  consuming  forty-eight  days,  and 
resumed  his  agricultural  pursuits,  remaining  there  until  1864  when  he  moved  to 
Chippewa  county.  His  health  was  very  poor  and  during  the  greater  period  of 
his  residence  in  America  he  made  his  home  with  his  sons.  He  died  October 
22,  1872,  having  survived  his  wife  since  October  29,  i860.  They  became  the 
parents  of  six  children:  Joseph,  Mary  B.  and  Casper  have  passed  away. 

Katherine  married  George  Meinhard,  who  died  in  1902,  leaving  his  wife  and 
seven  children.  Adam  is  a retired  farmer  living  in  Delmar  township.  He  mar- 
ried Miss  Mary  Rosenthal  and  has  eleven  children.  John  is  the  subject  of  this 
review. 

John  Haag  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany,  but  his 
advantages  along  this  line  were  limited,  'for  he  was  obliged  to  assume  the  re- 


MR.  AND  MRS.  JOHN  HAAC 


JOHN  HAAG 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


259 


sponsibility  for  the  support  of  the  family  when  he  was  only  twelve  years  of 
age,  his  father’s  illness  requiring  that  this  duty  be  performed  by  the  eldest  son. 
The  family  came  to  America  in  1854  and  settled  in  Washington  county,  Wiscon- 
sin, where  Mr.  Haag  of  this  review  worked  at  farm  labor  until  August,  1862. 
In  that  year  he  enlisted  in  Company  B,  Twenty-sixth  Wisconsin  Volunteer  In- 
fantry, in  the  Union  army  and  served  until  1863,  when  he  was  mustered  out. 
He  returned  to  Washington  county,  but  his  health  was  too  poor  to  permit  him 
to  work  for  almost  a year  thereafter.  He  endeavored  for  a while  to  work  as  a 
lumber  jack  in  the  woods,  but  was  not  strong  enough  after  the  hardships  in  the 
war,  so  he  was  made  cook  in  a woodmen’s  camp  and  continued  at  this  until 
in  the  spring,  1864,  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  here  purchased  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  land,  turning  his  attention  to  its  improvement  and  development. 
The  years  brought  him  constantly  increasing  success,  for  his  industry  was  untiring 
and  his  methods  at  all  times  practical.  He  made  extensive  improvements  upon 
his  property  and  by  hard  work  and  close  application  finally  made  it  one  of  the 
most  productive  and  valuable  farms  in  this  locality.  He  raised  all  kinds  of  small 
grains  and  was  a stock  breeder  on  an  extensive  scale,  both  of  these  branches  of 
his  activities  proving  important  and  profitable.  He  was,  however,  especially  in- 
terested in  dairying  and  his  dairy  products  commanded  a high  price  and  a ready 
sale  on  the  local  market.  In  1907,  feeling  that  he  was  entitled  to  a period  of 
rest  and  leisure,  Mr.  Haag  rented  his  farm  to  his  son.  Edwin  J.,  and  moved  into 
Cadott  where  he  has  since  lived  in  retirement.  His  landed  holdings  comprise 
the  original  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  35,  township  29,  range  6,  west, 
and  twenty  acres  on  section  34,  township  29,  range  6,  west.  He  owns  besides  a 
comfortable  residence  in  Cadott. 

In  Sigel  township,  January  22,  1868,  Mr.  Haag  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Anna  C.  Webert,  a daughter  of  George  and  Anna  C.  (Goetz)  Webert, 
natives  of  Germany.  The  family  emigrated  to  America  in  1865  and  settled  in 
Sigel  township,  this  county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Haag  became  the  parents  of  twelve 
children.  George  A.  is  a farmer  in  Dunn  county.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Bush- 
enderf  and  they  became  the  parents  of  four  children:  Cora,  Verona,  Sylvester 

and  Irene.  Louis  C.  is  manager  of  a hardware  store  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin. 
He  married  Miss  Amanda  Bushenderf  and  they  have  two  children,  Gilbert  and 
Luella.  John  makes  his  home  in  Cadott.  Henry  is  a minister  of  an  Evangel- 
ical church  in  Chicago,  Illinois.  His  wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Katie 
Zimmerman,  of  Big  Stone  City,  South  Dakota.  Mary  M.  became  the  wife  of 
Fred  Bushenderf,  a farmer  of  Elk  Mound,  Wisconsin.  They  have  five  children: 
William,  Melvina,  Colesta.  Stanley  and  Alice.  Carrie  and  William  have  passed 
away.  Anna  became  the  wife  of  Wesley  Becker,  a salesman  who  resides  at 
Greeley,  Colorado.  They  became  the  parents  of  two  children : Addison  and  one 
who  has  passed  away.  Arthur  is  a practising  physician  in  Evansville,  Wiscon- 
sin. Edwin  J.  is  operating  his  father’s  farm.  He  married  Miss  Laura  Eible 
and  they  have  one  child,  Gale.  Benjamin  J.  is  a clerk  in  a hardware  store  in 
Eau  Claire.  He  and  his  wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Maude  Rice, 
have  a daughter,  Elizabeth.  Adeline  K.,  youngest  child  in  this  family,  lives  at 
home. 

Mr.  Haag  is  a devout  member  of  the  Evangelical  church  of  Chippewa  Falls 
and  belongs  to  George  T.  Ginty  Post,  No.  183,  G.  A.  R.  Energy,  determination 

voi.  n— 14 


260 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  enterprise  have  formed  the  basis  of  his  success  in  life,  for  he  assumed  the 
responsibilities  of  manhood  when  he  was  still  a child  and  since  that  time  has 
worked  his  way  earnestly  and  persistently  upward  toward  the  goal  of  prosper- 
ity. In  whatever  relation  of  life  he  has  been  found,  he  has  proved  always  con- 
scientious, straightforward  and  reliable  and  in  the  course  of  a long  and  useful 
career  has  commanded  and  held  the  respect  and  esteem  of  all  who  have  been 
associated  with  him. 


ALFRED  ANDERSON. 

Alfred  Anderson  is  one  of  the  enterprising  and  successful  farmers  of  Auburn 
township  where  for  many  years  he  has  owned  and  operated  a fine  property  of 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres.  This  constitutes  the  homestead  upon  which  he 
was  born,  his  father  being  Andrew  Anderson,  a native  of  Norway  and  a pioneer 
in  this  part  of  Wisconsin.  As  a young  man  he  emigrated  to  America  and  home- 
steaded land  in  Auburn  township  where  he  engaged  in  agricultural  pursuits 
until  his  death  which  occurred  when  he  was  eighty  years  of  age.  His  wife,  who 
was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Anna  Christianson,  survives  him  and  makes  her 
home  with  the  subject  of  this  review.  They  were  the  parents  of  four  children. 

Alfred  Anderson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this  county, 
and  from  an  early  age  assisted  with  the  operation  of  the  home  farm,  becoming 
familiar  in  this  way  with  the  best  agricultural  methods.  When  he  began  his 
independent  career  he  naturally  turned  his  attention  to  the  occupation  to  which 
he  had  been  reared  and  after  his  father’s  death  purchased  the  interests  of  the 
other  heirs  to  the  homestead.  This  he  has  operated  since  that  time  and  he  has 
made  it  a most  attractive  and  valuable  property,  provided  with  substantial  build- 
ings and  excellent  machinery. 

Mr.  Anderson  married  Miss  Olive  Surdson  and  they  have  one  child,  Arline, 
aged  seventeen  months.  Mr.  Anderson  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the 
republican  party  and  holds  the  office  of  school  clerk,  discharging  his  duties  in  an 
able  and  progressive  way.  He  is  well  known  in  the  township  where  he  has  spent 
his  entire  life  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors  as  a 
reliable  business  man  and  a progressive  citizen. 


B.  P.  MATT] SON. 

B.  P.  Mattison  is  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  eighty  acres 
of  land  nine  miles  north  of  Bloomer  in  Sampson  township  and  by  his  practical 
methods  and  well  directed  efforts  in  its  cultivation  has  surrounded  himself  with 
a gratifying  degree  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  New  York  state  in  1858  and  is 
a son  of  Luman  and  Mary  (Hall)  Mattison,  natives  of  the  Empire  state.  The 
father  died  at  the  age  of  sixty-five  and  the  mother  is  still  living.  They  had  four 
children  : B.  P. ; Eva ; Mary ; and  Clara,  deceased. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


261 


When  he  was  still  a child  B.  P.  Mattison  moved  with  his  parents  to  Illinois 
and  in  the  public  schools  of  that  state  he  acquired  his  education.  From  his  child- 
hood he  assisted  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  and  when  he  laid  aside  his 
books  was  already  a practical  and  able  agriculturist.  He  began  his  independent 
career  in  Illinois  and  went  from  there  to  Nebraska  where  he  remained  for  fifteen 
years.  He  afterwards  spent  a short  time  in  Iowa  and  then  came  to  Wisconsin, 
settling  in  Chippewa  county  in  1903.  For  a time  he  worked  at  farming  in  the 
employ  of  his  brother-in-law  but  later  purchased  land  of  his  own  whereon  he 
has  since  resided.  He  owns  eighty  acres  of  choice  land  nine  miles  north  of 
Bloomer  and  gives  his  attention  to  general  farming  and  dairying,  meeting  with 
distinct  and  substantial  success. 

Mr.  Mattison  married  Mrs.  Bertha  (Mitchell)  Barry  and  both  are  well  and 
favorably  known  in  their  township.  Mr.  Mattison  is  a member  of  the  Seventh 
Day  Baptist  church  and  in  politics  votes  independently,  supporting  men  and 
measures  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  has  won  for  himself  a creditable 
position  in  agricultural  circles  of  this  section  by  reason  of  his  sterling  integrity 
and  the  keen  discrimination  which  he  constantly  displays  in  carrying  forward 
his  interests. 


ANSON  GREEN. 

Since  1895  Anson  Green  has  been  engaged  in  the  practice  of  law  in  Stanley 
and  has  in  that  length  of  time  been  connected  with  much  important  litigation  tried 
before  the  courts  of  the  county  and  state.  He  came  here  from  South  Dakota, 
where  for  many  years  he  was  prominent  as  a lawyer  and  legislator,  and  is  a 
native  of  this  state,  where  he  was  born  in  Neillsville,  Clark  county,  February  7, 
1858.  His  parents  were  Anson  and  Mary  E.  (Dean)  Green,  both  natives  of 
New  York  state,  where  the  former  was  born  in  1816  and  the  latter  in  1826.  The 
father  was  engaged  in  logging  in  Clark  county  in  the  early  days  and  there  he  passed 
away  in  1882,  the  mother  surviving  him  for  ten  years. 

Anson  Green  is  one  of  a family  of  eight  children  and  until  nineteen  years  of 
age  attended  the  Neillsville  high  school.  He  then  entered  iipon  his  professional 
studies  in  the  law  department  of  the  University  of  Wisconsin,  at  Madison,  from 
which  he  was  graduated  in  1879.  He  began  practicing  at  Spencer,  Wisconsin, 
there  remaining  for  one  year,  and  then  removed  to  Aberdeen,  South  Dakota,  where 
for  thirteen  years  he  was  intimately  connected  with  the  legal  life  of  that  city. 
Returning  to  his  native  state,  he  then  located  in  Prentice,  where  he  remained 
for  about  three  years,  and  in  1895  came  to  Stanley,  where  he  has  ever  since  been  one 
of  the  city’s  most  successful  legal  practitioners.  He  is  well  versed  in  the  principles 
of  law,  forceful  in  presenting  his  cause,  logical  in  his  deductions  and  convincing 
in  his  arguments,  and  there  is  no  court  or  jury  which  would  not  be  impressed  by 
his  clear  presentation  of  facts.  It  is  therefore  but  natural  that  a large  and  impor- 
tant clientage  has  come  to  him  and  that  today  he  is  considered  one  of  the  foremost 
lawyers  in  Chippewa  county. 

On  October  16,  1880,  Mr.  Green  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mamie  B. 
Dawes,  a daughter  of  Charles  F.  and  Sarah  M.  (Searles)  Dawes,  of  Necedah, 


262 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Wisconsin.  There  the  mother  died  in  1909  and  the  father  now  resides  in  St. 
Paul,  Minnesota.  In  the  early  days  he  was  a lumberman  widely  known  in  his 
district  and  highly  respected  and  esteemed.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Green  became  the 
parents  of  six  children,  of  whom  four  survive ; Grace,  who  married  Elmer  Kaas, 
a banker  in  South  Dakota;  Charles  A.,  who  married  a young  lady  from  Spokane, 
Washington,  by  whom  he  has  one  child,  Helen;  Jesse  D.,  who  is  engaged  in  the 
real-estate  business  in  Stanley  in  association  with  H.  H.  Moore;  and  Fred  M., 
who  is  assistant  manager  and  advertising  man  for  the  Aberdeen  Daily  News  at 
Aberdeen,  South  Dakota.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Green  attend  the  services  of  the  Pres- 
byterian church,  in  the  work  of  which  they  take  an  active  and  helpful  interest. 

Mr.  Green  gives  his  political  support  to  the  republican  party,  the  principles 
of  which  he  stanchly  upholds  at  the  polls,  giving  his  vote  always  to  the  candidates 
and  measures  of  that  organization.  While  in  South  Dakota  he  was  for  one  term, 
in  1889,  a member  of  the  state  legislature  and  did  highly  efficient  work  in  com- 
mittee rooms  as  well  as  on  the  floor  of  the  house.  Mr.  Green  also  has  the  dis- 
tinction of  having  served  as  the  first  city  attorney  of  Stanley.  He  is  deeply  inter- 
ested in  the  public  welfare  and  although  he  at  present  does  not  hold  any  public 
position,  strongly  upholds  all  measures  of  whose  worth  he  is  convinced.  A com- 
petent lawyer  and  a public-spirited  citizen,  he  is  highly  respected  and  he  is  also 
esteemed  as  a kindly  man  who  ever  exhibits  a spirit  of  human  fellowship  and  takes 
a deep  interest  in  those  around  him,  be  they  of  a high  or  lowly  station  in  life. 


LOUIS  KRANZFELDER. 

Louis  Kranzfelder  is  proprietor  of  the  largest  meat  market  in  Bloomer, 
and  well  merits  the  success  which  comes  to  him,  for  he  has  a food  establishment 
of  which  neatness,  prompt  service  and  honorable  dealing  are  noticeable  character- 
istics. He  is  one  of  Wisconsin’s  native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Sauk 
county  in  1855.  Like  many  of  the  residents  of  the  state,  he  is  of  the  first  gener- 
ation of  the  family  born  in  the  new  world.  His  father,  Leonard  Kranzfelder, 
was  a native  of  Bavaria,  but  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States  in  1854 
and  made  his  way  to  Wisconsin,  where  he  took  up  his  abode.  He  was  first  engaged 
in  farming  but  later  turned  his  attention  to  the  manufacture  of  brick,  in  which 
connection  he  conducted  a growing  and  profitable  business.  He  died  at  an 
advanced  age  and  left  behind  him  many  friends  who  recognized  and  honored  him 
for  his  sterling  worth.  Lie  was  married  in  Sauk  City,  Wisconsin,  to  Miss  Afra 
Ivnopfle,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  seven  children. 

At  the  usual  age  Louis  Kranzfelder  entered  the  public  schools,  in  which  he 
mastered  the  common  branches  of  learning.  After  putting  aside  his  text-books, 
he  was  employed  in  various  ways  on  the  river  and  in  farming  through  ten  sum- 
mers. Fie  next  went  to  work  in  a meat  market  at  Eau  Claire  and  later  was 
employed  in  a similar  capacity  in  Sauk  City.  Subsequently  he  opened  a shop 
there  but  after  a year  disposed  of  his  interests  at  Sauk  City  and  about  1882  came 
to  Bloomer,  where  he  has  since  engaged  in  the  meat  business,  having  handled  the 
largest  establishment  of  the  kind  in  the  town.  He  also  has  potatoes  and  mer- 
chandise and  was  the  first  man  in  his  locality  to  buy  and  ship  carloads  of  potatoes. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


263 


He  has  so  successfully  managed  his  business  affairs  that  in  addition  to  the  owner- 
ship of  the  store,  he  is  a stockholder  in  the  telephone  company,  in  the  creamery, 
in  the  machine  company  and  in  the  Bank  of  Bloomer. 

Mr.  Ivranzfelder  was  married  in  1881  to  Miss  Rosalia  Eiter,  of  Sauk  City, 
and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  nine  children : Richard,  Edward,  Leonard, 

May,  Anna,  Helena,  Joseph,  Louis  and  Robert. 

Mr.  Kranzfelder  votes  with  the  democratic  party  and  has  held  various  village 
offices.  He  holds  a policy  in  the  Bankers  Life  Insurance  Company,  of  Iowa,  and 
he  belongs  to  the  Catholic  Knights  and  to  the  Catholic  church.  Early  in  his  busi- 
ness career  he  was  actuated  by  the  laudable  ambition  of  attaining  success  if  it 
could  be  done  through  persevering,  earnest  effort.  His  labors  have  brought  about 
the  desired  result.  He  has  worked  persistently  and  indefatigably  and  as  the 
years  have  gone  by  has  achieved  a creditable  measure  of  prosperity. 


OLE  C.  HAUGEN. 

In  the  history  of  the  business  development  of  Stanley  it  is  imperative  that 
mention  be  made  of  Ole  C.  Haugen,  well  known  in  the  town  as  the  founder  of 
the  Otter  Creek  Ice  Company.  Although  his  connection  with  financial  interests 
there  has  covered  only  a comparatively  brief  period,  he  has  already  attained  a 
position  of  prominence,  while  in  his  farming  operations  he  has  also  demonstrated 
his  worth  and  reliability.  He  was  born  in  Norway,  April  io,  1857,  and  is  a son 
of  Ole  and  Elsie  C (Peterson)  Anderson,  also  natives  of  that  country,  the  for- 
mer being  born  in  1836  and  the  latter  in  1826.  The  father  was  a ship  carpenter 
by  trade,  following  this  occupation  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1882.  He 
had  survived  his  first  wife  several  years  and  by  that  union  had  two  children : 
Ole  C.  and  Martina  G.  After  the  death  of  his  first  wife  Ole  Anderson  married 
Miss  Patrine  Anderson,  and  to  this  union  were  born  seven  children : Martina, 

Anton,  Gustave,  Christina,  Laura,  Marie  and  Ole.  The  mother  and  children 
make  their  home  in  Norway. 

Ole  C.  Haugen  attended  the  public  schools  in  his  native  country  until  he  was 
fourteen  years  of  age,  and  then  followed  the  sea  for  a number  of  years,  rising 
to  be  captain  of  a vessel  when  he  was  only  twenty-three  years  of  age.  He  after- 
wards attended  a school  of  navigation  for  one  year  and  then  spent  six  months 
studying  this  science  under  private  tutors.  He  was  afterwards  a teacher  of  navi- 
gation, but  at  the  end  of  one  year  again  went  to  sea,  shipping  as  mate  and  con- 
tinuing thus  for  six  months,  when  he  was  promoted  to  the  rank  of  captain.  He 
followed  the  sea  thereafter  until  1888,  but  in  that  year  abandoned  that  line  of 
occupation  and  moved  to  Eau  Claire,  this  state,  where  he  secured  a position  in 
a sawmill.  At  the  end  of  three  years  he  began  taking  contracts  for  piling  lumber 
and  continued  this  in  Stanley  for  sixteen  years.  In  1900  he  purchased  eighty 
acres  of  fine  farming  land  on  section  24,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  upon 
that  property  he  took  up  his  residence  in  1906. 

He  has  been  very  successful  in  its  cultivation  and  has  made  many  substantial 
improvements  upon  it,  erecting  modern  buildings  and  installing  labor-saving 
machinery.  He  specializes  in  dairying  and  is  also  interested  in  stock-raising,  keep- 


264 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ing  twenty-five  head  of  cattle  and  six  horses.  He  is  a member  of  the  Guernsey  Cat- 
tle Breeders  Association,  and  he  keeps  abreast  of  the  most  advanced  thought  along 
this  line.  Mr.  Haugen  is  also  well  known  in  Stanley  as  the  organizer  of  the  Otter 
Creek  Ice  Company.  He  founded  this  in  1907  and  it  has  grown  since  that  time 
to  be  one  of  the  representative  business  concerns  of  that  locality,  the  plant  having 
a capacity  of  four  thousand  tons.  In  addition  to  this  Mr.  Haugen  is  a stock- 
holder in  the  Stanley  Dairy  and  Warehouse  Company  and  in  the  American  and 
Norwegian  Steamship  Line  and  is  known  throughout  his  section  of  the  county 
as  a farsighted,  discriminating  and  able  business  man. 

Mr.  Haugen  has  been  married  three  times.  He  wedded  first  in  Norway  in 
1882,  Miss  Marion  Evenson,  by  whom  he  had  five  children,  three  of  whom  are 
still  living.  His  first  wife  passed  away  in  1899  and  in  1903  he  wedded  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  Miss  Oline  Hansen.  She  died  in  1910,  leaving  three  children.  In 
Chippewa  Falls  in  1911  Mr.  Haugen  was  again  married,  his  third  union  being 
with  Mrs.  Marie  Stone  of  that  city. 

Mr.  Haugen  gives  his  political  support  to  the  republican  party  and  has  been 
a member  of  the  school  board  almost  continuously  since  taking  up  his  residence 
in  this  county.  His  religious  views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  United 
Lutheran  church,  of  which  he  is  a deacon.  He  stands  high  in  both  a business 
and  a social  sense  and  well  deserves  mention  among  the  representative  citizens 
of  Chippewa  county. 


ANDREW  HALVERSON. 

Sampson  township  numbers  among  its  most  representative  and  substantial 
farmers  Andrew  Halverson,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  property  of  eighty 
acres  whereon  he  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying.  He  was  born  in 
Wisconsin  in  1861  and  is  a son  of  Halvar  Thompson,  a native  of  Norway  who 
came  to  the  United  States  soon  after  his  marriage  and  located  in  Wisconsin,  set- 
tling first  in  Dane  county,  whence  he  moved  to  McCloud  county,  Minnesota, 
where  he  lived  three  years,  after  which  he  moved  to  Wisconsin  again,  settling  in 
Jackson  county/where  he  resided  till  his  death.  He  married  Miss  Torborg  and 
they  became  the  parents  of  seven  children,  of  whom  two  are  deceased.  Of  the 
five  who  are  living,  three  live  in  Chippewa  county:  Hans  and  Andrew,  near  New 
Auburn;  and  J.  B.  at  Stanley.  Thomas  and  Isabella  reside  on  the  homestead  in 
Jackson  county. 

In  the  acquirement  of  an  education  Andrew  Halverson  attended  the  public 
schools  of  Jackson  county  and  business  college  at  Valparaiso,  Indiana,  and  after 
laying  aside  his  books  worked  at  carpentering  in  various  localities  in  the  northern 
states  for  eleven  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  settled  in  Chippewa  county 
and  purchased  a farm  near  New  Auburn,  this  tract  comprising  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres.  He  afterwards  sold  this  and  purchased  the  eighty  acres  which  he 
still  owns.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and  is  meeting  with 
substantial  success.  He  makes  his  home  with  his  brother  Hans,  a well  known 
farmer  of  Sampson  township,  where  he  owns  what  is  considered  the  best  improved 
property  in  the  section. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


265 


Andrew  Halverson  is  unmarried.  Hans  wedded  Miss  Lena  Ekern.  All  are 
well  and  favorably  known  in  this  part  of  Chippewa  county  and  are  devout  mem- 
bers of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church.  The  subject  of  this  review  votes  inde- 
pendently, supporting  men  and  measures  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is 
at  present  serving  as  chairman  of  his  township  and  is  known  as  a capable  public 
official  as  well  as  a progressive  and  able  farmer. 


MRS.  ELIZABETH  MULLIN. 

Mrs.  Elizabeth  Mullin,  who  has  lived  within  the  borders  of  Chippewa  county 
for  almost  six  decades,  is  the  owner  of  a well  improved  farm  of  eighty  acres  on 
section  12,  Arthur  township.  It  was  in  1855  that  she  came  to  this  county  from 
Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  where  her  birth  occurred  on  the  12th  of  September,  1838. 
Her  parents,  Peter  and  Catherine  (Geib)  Snyder,  are  both  deceased  and  lie  buried 
in  Chippewa  county.  She  attended  school  in  Milwaukee  until  seventeen  years  of 
age  and  subsequently  earned  her  own  livelihood  until  she  gave  her  hand  in  mar- 
riage to  Harvey  Luther,  a storekeeper  of  Chippewa  Falls,  who  passed  away  in 
1867.  By  this  union  were  born  two  children,  namely:  Anne,  who  is  the  wife  of 
James  Mitchell,  a logger  of  Chippewa  county;  and  Emma,  the  wife  of  Jonas 
Duesett,  who  follows  farming  in  this  county.  In  1870  Mrs.  Luther  became  the 
wife  of  Albert  Mullin,  owning  the  farm  of  eighty  acres  in  Arthur  township  on 
which  she  is  now  residing  and  which  has  remained  in  her  possession  since  her 
husband’s  death.  The  improvements  on  the  property  include  a commodious  and 
substantial  residence  as  well  as  barns  and  outbuildings  and,  carefully  conducting 
her  farming  interests,  Mrs.  Mullin  enjoys  a gratifying  annual  income.  She  is 
a devoted  member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  exemplifies  its  teachings  in  her 
daily  life.  She  has  won  many  friends  in  this  county  during  the  long  period  of  her 
residence  here  and  is  largely  familiar  with  its  history  from  pioneer  times  down 
to  the  present. 


IMBERT  ROE. 

Imbert  Roe  occupies  an  important  position  in  financial  circles  of  Stanley  as 
cashier  of  the  Citizens  State  Bank.  He  was  born  in  Porters  Mills,  Eau  Claire 
county,  Wisconsin,  August  11,  1884,  and  is  a son  of  Louis  I.  and  Ellen  (Haagen- 
sen)  Roe,  natives  of  Norway,  the  former  born  August  8,  i860.  They  now 
reside  in  Stanley,  where  the  father  is  well  known  in  business  circles  as  president 
of  the  L.  I.  Roe  Company,  general  merchants.  In  their  family  were  eleven  chil- 
dren, Imbert,  Herman.  Bertha,  Edwin  B.,  Ludwig  I.,  Norman  O.,  Bernhard  O., 
Edna  L.,  Signe,  Borghild  and  Sigfrid  A. 

Imbert  Roe  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Stanley  and  in 
St.  Olaf’s  College  at  Northfield,  Minnesota,  from  which  he  was  graduated  in 
1902.  When  he  returned  to  Stanley  he  entered  the  Citizens  State  Bank  as  a 
clerk  and  he  was  advanced  to  the  position  of  cashier  in  1909.  He  has  held  this 


266 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


responsible  position  since  that  time  and  has  proved  himself  a farsighted  ana 
capable  financier.  He  has  other  important  connections,  being  a stockholder  in 
the  Ingram  State  Bank  of  Ingram  and  the  Junction  City  Bank  of  Junction  City, 
and  his  ability  is  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 

At  Ostrander,  Minnesota,  August  29,  1905,  Mr.  Roe  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Caroline  Johnson,  a daughter  of  Knudt  and  Elsie  (Heleckun)  Johnson, 
the  former  a prosperous  farmer  of  Ostrander,  Minnesota.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Roe 
have  two  children,  Evelyn  D.  and  Nordis  I.  Mr.  Roe  is  a member  of  the  United 
Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  Although  one  of  the 
younger  men  of  Stanley  he  has  already  attained  gratifying  success  in  his  chosen 
line  of  work  and  his  ability  and  enterprise  will  undoubtedly  carry  him  forward 
into  still  more  important  business  relations. 


LUDGER  VAUDREUIL. 

Prominent  among  the  energetic,  capable  and  far-seeing  business  men  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  is  Ludger  Vaudreuil,  president  of  the  Vaudreuil  Lumber  Com- 
pany. Realizing  at  the  outset  of  his  career  that  there  is  no  royal  road  to  wealth, 
he  cultivated  the  qualities  of  determination,  persistency  and  energy  until  suc- 
cess in  large  measure  has  rewarded  his  efforts.  He  has  been  a resident  of  Chip- 
pewa county  since  1870  and  through  the  intervening  years  has  made  continuous 
progress  until  his  position  in  business  circles  of  Chippewa  Falls  is  an  enviable 
one.  He  was  only  four  years  of  age  when  brought  to  Wisconsin,  his  birth  hav- 
ing occurred  in  Montreal,  Canada,  on  the  2d  of  May,  1866.  He  is  a son  of  God- 
frey and  Solime  (Dussault)  Vaudreuil,  the  former  a lumberman  and  one  of  the 
early  settlers  of  Chippewa  county.  After  many  years’  residence  here  he  passed 
away  in  1894,  and  was  laid  to  rest  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  His  wife  is  still  a 
resident  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  has  reached  the  age  of  seventy-eight.  The  fam- 
ily is  of  French  lineage.  The  sterling  worth  and  capability  of  Godfrey  Vau- 
dreuil made  him  widely  and  favorably  known  and  he  was  classed  with  the  most 
highly  respected  residents  of  his  city. 

Brought  to  Chippewa  Falls  at  the  early  age  of  four  years,  Ludger  Vaudreuil 
entered  the  public  schools  here  and  pursued  his  education  to  the  age  of  eleven 
years,  when  he  started  out  in  life  on  his  own  account.  He  may  truly  be  called  a 
self-made  man,  for  since  that  time  he  has  been  dependent  upon  his  own  resources. 
,In  the  school  of  experience  he  has  learned  many  valuable  lessons  and  he  has 
made  each  one  count  for  the  utmost  in  a successful  career.  He  was  employed 
in  various  positions  in  connection  with  lumber  manufacturing  and  through  much 
of  his  life  was  connected  with  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company.  His  first 
service  was  in  the  sawmills  but  later  he  went  into  the  woods,  where  he  worked 
until  twenty-one  years  of  age,  when  he  became  shipping  clerk  in  'the  yard. 
When  he  was  twenty-four  years  of  age  he  was  promoted  to  the  position  of  super- 
intendent of  the  shipping  department  and  thus  continued  until  the  business  was 
closed  out  in  March,  1912.  At  that  time  he  purchased  the  retail  department  of 
the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company  and  his  business  has  grown  steadily 
month  by  month.  Already  his  patronage  has  reached  extensive  proportions  and 


LUDGER  VAUDEEUIL 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


269 


his  long  connection  with  the  lumber  business  makes  him  thoroughly  qualified  to 
conduct  an  individual  undertaking  of  that  character. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  22d  of  November,  1893,  Mr.  Vaudreuil  was  mar- 
ried to  Miss  Lenora  Blair,  a daughter  of  Louis  and  Mary  Blair,  of  Tilden  town- 
ship, the  former  a pioneer  farmer  of  this  county.  They  are  now  residents  of 
Saskatchewan,  Canada.  In  1905  Mr.  Vaudreuil  was  called  upon  to  mourn  the 
loss  of  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in  March  of  that  year  and  was  laid  to  rest  in 
Forest  Hill  cemetery.  She  left  five  children,  beside  the  husband,  to  mourn  her 
loss,  namely : Annette,  a sister  of  the  Notre  Dame  order ; Wilfred,  who  is  book- 
keeper for  the  Vaudreuil  Lumber  Company ; Irene,  a student  in  the  high  school ; 
and  Lionel  and  Ronald,  both  of  whom  are  attending  school.  On  the  20th  of 
June,  1907,  Mr.  Vaudreuil  was  again  married,  his  second  union  being  with  Miss 
Mary  Caron,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Joseph  Caron,  of  Fall  River,  Massa- 
chusetts. Three  daughters  have  been  born  of  the  second  marriage,  Isabelle, 
Gladys  and  Elsmele. 

Mr.  Vaudreuil  has  erected  an  attractive  home  at  202  Court  street.  He  is  de- 
voted to  the  welfare  of  his  family  and  is  interested  in  various  projects  having 
to  do  with  the  benefit  and  upbuilding  of  the  community.  He  belongs  to  the 
Notre  Dame  Catholic  church,  of  which  he  has  been  treasurer  for  a number  of 
years.  He  is  a member  of  St.  John’s  Society  and  of  the  Knights  of  Columbus  of 
which  he  is  a trustee.  He  is  a member  of  the  board  of  education  and  has  co- 
operated in  many  projects  that  have  led  to  substantial  improvements  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls.  His  life  has  been  one  of  intense  activity,  intelligently  directed,  and 
step  by  step  he  has  worked  his  way  upward  until  he  occupies  a prominent  and 
enviable  place  in  the  commercial  circles  of  his  city. 


J.  WESLEY  RAVEN. 

J.  Wesley  Raven  is  the  owner  of  Raven’s  Roost,  a valuable  and  well  managed 
stock  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  lying  four  miles  west  of  Bloomer, 
in  Cooks  Valley.  His  entire  life  has  been  spent  upon  that  property  and  he  has 
been  its  owner  for  the  past  six  years,  its  excellent  condition  at  the  present  time 
being  largely  due  to  his  well  directed  efforts  in  its  management.  Mr.  Raven 
was  born  on  the  place  he  now  owns,  within  six  rods  of  his  present  house,  August 
2,  1884,  and  is  a son  of  John  V.  Raven,  a native  of  New  York  state,  who  came 
to  Wisconsin  when  he  was  about  twenty  years  of  age.  He  afterward  moved 
to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  followed  farming  until  his  death,  which  occurred 
in  1911,  when  he  was  sixty-two  years  of  age.  He  married,  in  Wisconsin,  Miss 
Ede  Sackett,  who  died  in  1907,  leaving  three  children:  William,  who  makes  his 
home  in  Colfax ; J.  Wesley,  of  this  review ; and  Elona. 

J.  Wesley  Raven  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chip- 
pewa county  and  afterward  took  a short  course  at  the  Wisconsin  State  Univer- 
sity at  Madison.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  returned  to  the  homestead  and 
six  years  ago  purchased  this  property,  which  he  has  since  operated.  He  carries 
on  general  farming  and  dairying  but  is  especially  interested  in  stock-raising,  con- 
centrating his  attention  largely  upon  that  branch  of  his  activities.  He  raises 


270 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


pure-bred  Holstein  and  ITolstein-Friesan  cattle  and  has  always  a large  and  valuable 
herd.  Since  the  farm  came  into  his  possession  he  has  replaced  the  old  buildings 
by  modern  structures,  retaining,  however,  the  house,  which  is  a comfortable  and 
commodious  residence. 

Mr.  Raven  married  Miss  Fannie  Harwood,  and  they  are  the  parents  of  two 
children,  Robert  and  Roger,  twins,  five  years  of  age.  Mr.  Raven  is  a member  of 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  church  and  is  independent  in  his  political  views,  voting 
for  men  and  measures  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  has  rendered  the  town- 
ship excellent  service  as  assessor  and  is  public-spirited  and  progressive  in  mat- 
ters of  citizenship,  taking  an  intelligent  interest  in  the  welfare  of  his  native  com- 
munity. 


EDWARD  F.  BURNS,  D.  D.  S. 

Edward  F.  Burns,  who  for  a number  of  years  practiced  dentistry  in  Stanley 
and  who  is  now  connected  with  important  business  interests  of  the  city  as  secre-  ' 
tary  and  treasurer  of  the  Stanley  Produce  Company,  was  horn  in  Portage  county, 
Wisconsin,  April  20,  1871.  He  is  a son  of  Nicholas  and  Mary  (O'Connor)  Burns, 
natives  of  Ireland,  the  former  horn  in  1824  and  the  latter  in  1830.  Their  marriage 
occurred  in  Wilmington,  Delaware,  whither  the  father  came  in  i860,  and  eight 
years  afterwards  they  moved  to  Wisconsin.  In  this  state  Nicholas  Burns  engaged 
in  farming  until  his  death  which  occurred  in  1905.  His  wife  passed  away  in 
1910.  In  their  family  were  eight  children.  James  died  in  infancy.  John  is  a 
farmer  on  the  old  homestead  in  Portage  county.  He  married  Mary  Dorshiet 
and  they  have  four  children.  Mary  is  the  third  child  in  this  family.  Michael 
and  Margaret  died  in  infancy.  Nicholas  is  engaged  in  farming  at  Portage.  He 
married  Miss  Hannah  Tobin  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children. 
Anna  became  the  wife  of  J.  E.  Phillips,  county  superintendent  of  schools  of 
Taylor  county.  They  have  eight  children.  Edward  is  the  subject  of  this  review. 

Edward  F.  Burns  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Portage 
county  and  later  attended  the  University  of  Notre  Dame,  South  Bend,  Indiana. 
He  took  a course  in  the  Oshkosh  Normal  School  and  afterward  entered  North- 
western University  at  Evanston,  Illinois,  where  he  studied  dentistry,  receiving 
his  degree  of  D.  D.  S.  in  1897.  On  the  22d  of  February  in  the  following  year 
he  opened  an  office  in  Stanley  and  continued  in  active  practice  of  his  profession 
until  August,  1910,  securing  in  the  meantime  a large  and  representative  patronage. 
He  eventually  abandoned  dentistry  and  turned  his  attention  to  business  pursuits, 
purchasing  the  warehouse  and  stock  of  the  W.  W.  Crane  Sons  Company  and 
incorporating  the  Stanley  Produce  Company  of  which  he  has  since  been  secretary 
and  treasurer,  with  Mr.  J.  F.  Wallace,  president.  Dr.  Burns  has  proved  a reliable, 
enterprising  and  aggressive  business  man  and  because  of  his  ability  he  occupies 
an  important  place  in  the  business  world  of  Stanley.  He  is  secretary  and  manager 
of  the  Stanley  Cdnseng  Company  which  he  aided  in  organizing  and  was  one  of 
the  organizers  and  stockholders  as  well  as  vice  president  of  the  Citizens  State 
Bank  of  Stanley,  which  position  he  held  until  March,  1910,  when  he  sold  his 
financial  interests  in  order  to  enter  mercantile  life.  He  was  also  one  of  the  organ- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OP  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


271 


izers  of  the  State  Bank  of  Boyd,  Wisconsin,  and  served  as  a director  for  the  first 
two  years  of  its  history.  He  attained  a position  of  prominence  in  his  profession 
and  was  known  as  the  first  dentist  to  establish  an  office  on  the  Wisconsin  Central 
Railroad  between  Chippewa  Falls  and  Marshfield. 

In  Chicago,  Illinois,  on  the  15th  of  November,  1898,  Dr.  Burns  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Estella  M.  Judd,  a daughter  of  Whitney  and  Martha  (Hay- 
wood) Judd,  the  former  of  whom  engaged  in  the  livery  business  for  many  years. 
He  now  makes  his  home  in  Stanley  at  the  age  of  eighty-three,  having  survived 
his  wife  since  1900.  Mrs.  Burns  passed  away  in  1912,  leaving  three  children: 
Judd,  Donald  and  Robert. 

Dr.  Burns  is  president  of  the  Wisconsin  Ginseng  Growers’  Association  and 
he  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Order  of  Beavers  and  the  Modern  Woodmen 
of  America.  He  is  an  independent  republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  a 
devout  member  of  the  Christian  Scientist  church.  Although  he  has  been  active 
in  business  affairs  for  only  three  years  he  has  already  formed  important  and 
permanent  connections  and  has  attained  for  himself  a high  place  among  the  repre- 
sentative and  substantial  men  of  the  city. 


WILBUR  H.  BRIDGMAN. 

Wilbur  H.  Bridgman,  editor  of  the  Stanley  Republican  and  postmaster  of 
the  city  for  the  past  fifteen  years,  was  born  on  a farm  in  Wiota,  Lafayette  county, 
Wisconsin,  November  27,  1866.  His  paternal  ancestry  is  easily  traced  in  the 
history  of  this  country  from  pre-revolutionary  times,  the  progenitor  of  all  of 
the  Bridgmans  having  emigrated  from  England  in  the  seventeenth  century  and  set- 
tled in  New  England.  The  father  of  the  subject  of  this  review  came  from  Ohio  to 
Wisconsin  and  his  mother,  Ellen  Ann  Williams,  was  born  in  New  York  state. 

Wilbur  H.  Bridgman  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  common  schools 
and  supplemented  it  with  courses  in  the  Darlington  high  school,  the  Oshkosh 
Normal  School  and  Hillsdale  College,  Hillsdale,  Michigan.  He  followed  the 
vocation  of  teaching  for  several  years  and  in  1894  was  elected  county  superin- 
tendent of  schools  of  Iron  county,  Wisconsin,  winning  reelection  in  1896,  In 
1894  he  established  and  began  the  publication  of  the  Iron  County  Republican 
at  Hurley  and  two  years  later  established  the  Stanley  Republican  at  Stanley.  This 
he  subsequently  merged  with  the  associated  printing  business  into  the  Inter-County 
Publishing  Company  in  which  he  remains  a controlling  factor.  He  has  been  suc- 
cessful in  newspaper  work  and  finds  it  congenial.  He  was  elected  president  of 
the  Wisconsin  Press  Association  in  1910  and  reelected  in  1911.  Because  of 
the  distinction  enjoyed  by  this  association  as  being  the  oldest  organization  of 
the  kind  in  the  world  and  because  of  the  fact  that  some  of  the  most  distinguished 
men  the  state  has  produced  are  numbered  in  the  long  line  of  its  presidents,  Mr. 
Bridgman  believes  that  his  choice  for  this  position  by  his  fellow  editors  is  the 
greatest  honor  that  has  ever  been  conferred  upon  him.  He  was  appointed  post- 
master at  Stanley  by  President  McKinley  on  April  1,  1898,  reappointed  by  Presi- 
dents McKinley,  Roosevelt  and  Taft,  having  now  held  this  responsible  position 
for  fifteen  years  and  a half.  Mr.  Bridgman  was  one  of  the  organizers  of  the 


272 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


t ltizens  State  Bank,  Stanley  s first  banking  institution,  and  has  been  continuously 
on  its  board  of  directors  and  is  at  present  its  vice  president. 

On  the  ist  of  February,  1899,  Mr.  Bridgman  married  Miss  Carolyn  Fawcett 
of  Minneapolis  and  two  sons  and  a daughter  have  been  born  to  them.  Mr.  Bridgman 
is  a member  of  Stanley  Lodge,  No.  273,  A.  F.  & A.  M. ; Wisconsin  Chapter 
R.  A.  M.;  and  Tancred  Commandery,  K.  T.,  of  Chippewa  Falls.  He  is  also  a 
member  of  the  Order  of  the  Eastern  Star  and  of  the  Modern  Woodmen  of 
America.  Mr.  Bridgman  is  well  known  in  Stanley  as  a capable  public  official,  a 
progressive  citizen  and  a farsighted  and  reliable  business  man. 


WALTER  M.  MILLER. 

As  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company  Walter 
M.  Miller  occupies  an  important  position  in  commercial  circles  in  Stanley.  Since 
1902  he  has  been  engaged  in  that  line  of  business  and  since  1906  has  held  his 
present  position  with  the  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company,  which  was  incor- 
porated in  that  year  with  a capital  stock  of  twenty-five  thousand  dollars.  Mr. 
Miller  also  has  other  important  interests  and  has  creditably  discharged  his  public 
duties  as  city  clerk  for  a number  of  years.  He  is  also  interested  in  Indian  lore 
and  Indian  relics  and  has  one  of  the  finest  collections  of  Indian  trophies  and 
mementos  in  this  part  of  Wisconsin.  He  was  born  in  Dunn  county,  this  state, 
November  19,  1881,  and  is  a son  of  Frank  O.  and  Mathilda  (Machmiller)  Miller, 
natives  of  Dodge  county,  the  former  born  March  21,  1858,  and  the  latter  in  1857. 
The  father  is  one  of  the  foremost  citizens  of  Stanley  and  president  of  the  Miller- 
Myers  Implement  Company,  having  been  largely  instrumental  in  founding  this 
important  business  and  contributing  to  its  growth.  He  and  his  wife  are  the  par- 
ents of  two  children : Ella,  who  married  Arthur  A.  Myers,  vice  president  of  the 
Miller-Myers  Implement  Company,  by  whom  she  has  three  children,  Zeona,  Loma 
and  La  Moine ; and  Walter  M.,  of  this  review. 

Lfp  to  the  age  of  thirteen  years  Walter  M.  Miller  attended  district  school  and 
then  for  two  years  pursued  his  studies  in  the  Eau  Galle  school.  He  subsequently 
taught  school  during  the  winter  months  and  in  summer  engaged  in  farming,  con- 
tinuing so  for  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  period  he  was  engaged  iff  the  imple- 
ment business  with  his  father  for  one  year  and  then,  recognizing  the  importance 
of  a thorough  business  training,  took  a course  at  Toland’s  Business  College  at 
Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin.  After  leaving  this  school  he  went  to  North  Dakota,  where 
he  remained  for  three  months  and  then  came  to  Stanley,  where  in  1902  he  became 
connected  with  the  implement  business.  The  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company 
was  incorporated  in  1906  and  he  has  served  as  its  secretary  and  treasurer  ever 
since,  contributing  largely  toward  the  growth  of  the  business.  The  president  is 
Frank  O.  Miller,  father  of  our  subject,  and  A.  A.  Myers  is  vice  president.  The 
capital  stock  is  twenty-five  thousand  dollars.  Mr.  Miller  of  this  review  has  exhib- 
ited rare  business  ability  and  executive  force  in  his  connection  with  the  company 
and  the  present  prosperous  condition  of  the  business  is  in  a large  measure  due 
to  him. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


273 


On  October  26,  1904,  at  Elmwood,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Miller  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Bessie  Kelly,  a daughter  of  Thomas  P and  Frances  (Webb)  Kelly, 
of  Spring  Lake  township,  Pierce  county,  this  state.  Mr.  Kelly  is  a sawmill  owner 
and  prominent  in  his  section.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Miller  have  one  son,  Donald. 

In  his  political  affiliations  Mr.  Miller  is  a progressive  republican,  deeply  inter- 
ested in  his  party  and  always  upholding  its  candidates  at  the  polls.  Fraternally 
he  is  a Mason,  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the 
Modern  Woodman  of  America.  For  three  terms  he  has  successfully  discharged 
the  duties  of  city  clerk  of  Stanley.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Farmers  and  Mer- 
chants Bank.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church,  in  the  work  of 
which  he  takes  a laudable  interest.  Mr.  Miller  finds  recreation  and  great  pleasure 
in  collecting  Indian  relics  and  now  owns  about  three  thousand  pieces,  one  of 
the  finest  collections  in  this  part  of  the  state.  He  owns  his  own  residence  and 
there  he  and  his  wife  often  entertain,  both  being  prominent  and  popular  in  the 
best  circles  of  society.  Mr.  Miller  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  progressive 
business  men  of  the  city  and  is  highly  respected  wherever  known.  Successful  in 
business,  he  ever  exhibits  those  qualities  which  make  for  good  citizenship  and 
is  recognized  as  a forceful  and  influential  factor  in  the  community. 


FRANK  O.  MILLER. 

Frank  O.  Miller,  prominently  connected  with  business  interests  of  Stanley  as 
president  of  the  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company,  a large  concern  which  he 
aided  in  organizing,  was  born  in  Dodge  county,  this  state,  March  21,  1858.  He 
is  a son  of  William  Miller,  whose  birth  occurred  in  Germany  in  1817  and  who 
came  to  Wisconsin  when  he  was  a young  man,  settling  in  Dodge  county,  where 
he  engaged  in  farming.  His  first  wife  died  here  six  years  later.  They  were 
the  parents  of  four  children : William,  who  has  passed  away ; Louis ; Louisa ; 
and  Augusta,  also  deceased.  William  Miller  afterward  married  Miss  Henrietta 
Melcher,  of  Dodge  county,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eight  children : Henry, 
who  resides  in  Dunn  county;  Frank  O.,  of  this  review;  Herman,  of  Cottage 
Grove,  Oregon;  Otto,  of  Tomahawk  Junction,  Wisconsin;  Julius,  a resident  of 
Eugene,  Oregon ; Fred,  who  lives  in  Red  Wing,  Minnesota ; and  two  who  died 
in  infancy. 

Frank  O.  Miller  acquired  his  education  in  the  Dodge  county  district  schools, 
laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  remained  upon  his 
father’s  farm  until  he  was  twenty  years  of  age  and  then  purchased  a tract  of 
wild  land  in  Dunn  county.  This  he  cleared  of  a heavy  growth  of  timber  and 
upon  it  built  a log  cabin,  in  which  he  lived  for  eighteen  years  and  in  which  all 
of  his  children  were  born.  Eventually  he  sold  this  property  and  moved  upon 
his  brother’s  farm  in  Weston  township,  Dunn  county,  where  he  remained  for 
three  years.  In  1900  he  removed  to  Stanley  and  here  opened  a farm  implement 
store  which  he  conducted  alone  until  1906,  when  the  Miller-Myers  Implement 
Company  was  incorporated  with  the  following  officers:  Frank  O.  Miller,  presi- 
dent; Arthur  A.  Myers,  vice  president;  and  Walter  M.  Miller,  secretary  and 
treasurer.  The  capital  stock  is  now  twenty-five  thousand  dollars  and  the  busi- 


274 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ness  controlled  by  the  company  is  constantly  increasing  in  volume  and  impor- 
tance. Much  of  the  credit  for  this  growth  is  due  to  the  energetic  and  well  directed 
work  of  Frank  O.  Miller,  who  gives  a great  deal  of  his  time  to  the  affairs  of 
the  concern  and  who  has  directed  its  policy  along  modern  and  progressive  lines. 

In  Woodland  township,  Dodge  county,  on  the  20th  of  November,  1879,  Mr. 
Miller  married  Miss  Mathilda  Machmiller,  a daughter  of  Charles  and  Johannah 
(Beecher)  Machmiller,  the  former  a brickmaker  and  mason  by  trade  and  also  the 
proprietor  of  a store  and  hotel  in  Dodge  county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Miller  have 
become  the  parents  of  two  children.  Ella  married  Arthur  A.  Myers,  vice  presi- 
dent of  the  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company,  and  they  have  three  children, 
Zeona,  Loma  and  Ea  Moine.  Walter  is  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  Miller- 
Myers  Implement  Company.  He  married  Miss  Bessie  Kelly  and  they  have  become 
the  parents  of  a son,  Donald. 

Mr.  Miller  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  connected  with  the 
Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  the  Equitable  Fraternal  Union.  He  is  a 
progressive  republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  served  for  three  terms  as  a 
member  of  the  town  council  and  for  ten  years  on  the  water  commission  at  Stanley. 
His  cooperation  <'an  always  be  counted  upon  in  the  promotion  of  progressive 
public  projects  and  everything  pertaining  to  the  welfare  and  advancement  of  the 
community  receives  his  endorsement  and  hearty  support.  He  is  known  as  a 
progressive  and  public-spirited  citizen  and  holds  the  esteem  and  high  regard  of  all 
who  are  associated  with  him. 


THOMAS  EMMERTON. 

Thomas  Emmerton  was  the  fifth  settler  in  the  part  of  Chippewa  county  which 
is  now  Auburn  township,  having  located  on  the  farm  which  he  still  owns  in  i860. 
He  has,  therefore,  witnessed  practically  the  entire  development  of  this  region, 
for  at  the  time  of  his  arrival  few  settlements  had  been  made  within  the  borders 
of  the  county  and  the  land  was  practically  an  unbroken  wilderness.  In  the  work 
of  development  which  has  been  steadily  carried  forward  since  that  time  Mr. 
Emmerton  has  borne  an  active  and  honorable  part,  making  his  own  farm  a valuable 
and  productive  property  and  cooperating  heartily  in  measures  for  the  community 
advancement  and  growth.  Today,  at  the  age  of  seventy-seven,  he  is  one  of  the 
most  highly  respected  residents  of  Auburn  township  and  is  ranked  with  the  real 
upbuilders  and  promoters  of  this  section  of  the  state. 

Thomas  Emmerton  was  born  in  Middlesex,  England,  in  1836,  and  is  a son 
of  John  Emmerton,  also  a native  of  that  country,  who  emigrated  to  America  at 
an  early  date  and  settled  in  Huron  township,  Ontario,  Canada,  in  August,  1848. 
For  a number  of  years  he  engaged  in  railroad  contracting,  building  railroads  and 
bridges  in  England,  and  he  died  in  Ontario,  Canada,  at  the  age  of  ninety-three.  He 
and  his  wife,  whose  maiden  name  was  Miss  Caroline  Hibbert,  became  the  parents 
of  eight  children,  six  sons  and  two  daughters.  Four  still  survive. 

Thomas  Emmerton  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  England 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  came  to  America,  settling  in  Canada,  where  he 
arrived  in  1848.  He  remained  there  until  i860  and  then  came  to  Wisconsin, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


275 


I 

making  the  journey  from  Janesville  to  this  locality  by  wagon.  The  fifth  settler 
in  Auburn  township,  he  located  on  a farm  there  and  upon  this  property  has  since 
resided  continuously,  a period  of  fifty-three  years.  At  the  time  of  his  arrival  the 
Indians  were  very  numerous,  wild  game  was  plentiful  and  the  entire  county  prac- 
tically a wilderness.  With  characteristic  energy  Mr.  Emmerton  set  himself  to 
improve  his  farm,  erecting  excellent  buildings,  and  the  years  have  brought  him 
constantly  increasing  success  so  that  he  is  today  in  possession  of  a fine  property 
of  four  hundred  acres,  the  excellent  condition  of  which  represents  the  results  of 
a long,  honorable  and  useful  career. 

Mr.  Emmerton  married  Miss  Sarah  Roberts,  of  Yorkshire,  England,  and 
they  became  the  parents  of  nine  children;  Alfred,  of  Butte,  Montana;  Charles, 
who  resides  one  and  a half  miles  from  his  father’s  farm;  William,  who  is  aiding 
in  the  operation  of  the  homestead;  Ernest,  deceased;  Caroline,  at  home;  Robert, 
who  has  passed  away;  Helen,  who  lives  in  Chippewa  Falls;  George,  a resident 
of  Colfax  ; and  Rose,  also  deceased. 

Mr.  Emmerton  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  in  politics  votes  inde- 
pendently, being  influenced  by  men  and  measures  rather  than  by  party  lines.  He 
has  held  various  local  offices  and  since  pioneer  times  has  been  interested  in 
business  affairs,  cooperating  heartily  in  all  measures  to  promote  general  advance- 
ment and  growth,  and  especially  the  welfare  of  the  farming  class.  He  was 
elected  first  state  president  of  the  American  Society  of  Equity  of  the  state  of 
Wisconsin.  Living  in  Chippewa  county  for  fifty-three  years,  during  all  of  which 
time  he  has  resided  upon  his  present  farm,  he  is  one  of  the  best  known  citizens 
of  this  locality,  being  widely  recognized  as  a man  of  tried  integrity  and  worth, 
of  business  enterprise  and  unfaltering  diligence. 


ERICK  E.  BRANDMO. 

Since  1906  Erick  E.  Brandmo  has  conducted  a photographic  gallery  in  Stanley 
and  has  built  up  a business  of  gratifying  proportions.  Not  only  is  he  thoroughly 
acquainted  with  the  technical  aspects  of  photography  but  he  also  has  a keen 
artistic  perception  which  makes  his  pictures  true  to  life  and  always  guides  him 
in  bringing  out  the  most  advantageous  yet  unstudied  pose  and  the  most  desir- 
able effect.  He  is  yet  a young  man,  having  been  born  September  26,  1884,  in 
Norway,  in  which  country  he  remained  until  he  was  about  nineteen  years  of 
age.  He  is  a son  of  Thorstein  and  Matlvia  (Erickson)  Brandmo,  natives  of  Nor- 
way, the  former  born  in  1840  and  the  latter  in  1858.  The  father  followed  the 
same  business  in  which  his  son  is  now  engaged  and  upon  coming  to  America 
the  parents  settled  in  Stanley,  Wisconsin,  where  the  father  died  in  1912.  The 
mother  survives  and  makes  her  home  in  that  city.  Of  their  family  of  eight  chil- 
dren five  are  yet  living,  Ellis,  Erick,  Peter  R.,  Trygve  and  Margaret. 

Erick  E.  Brandmo  received  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Norway  until  six- 
teen years  of  age,  and  in  1904  came  to  America.  He  has  ever  since  been  con- 
nected with  the  photographic  art  and  during  his  first  years  in  this  country  was 
engaged  in  business  for  two  years  in  Minnesota.  In  1906  he  came  to  Stanley, 
buying  a gallery,  and  has  ever  since  been  very  successful  here,  numbering  among 


276 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


his  customers  the  most  representative  people  of  the  section.  His  studio  is  excel- 
lently appointed  and  equipped  with  all  the  necessities  to  insure  satisfactory  effects 
in  his  pictures.  He  uses  very  powerful  and  high-grade  cameras  and  his  pic- 
tures are  not  only  perfect  from  a mechanical  point  of  view  but  show  an  artistic 
sense  for  proper  proportion  and  effective  arrangement  which  is  highly  satis- 
factory. It  is  but  natural  therefore  that  Mr.  Brandmo  enjoys  a profitable  patron- 
age which  is  fast  increasing. 

Mr.  Brandmo  owns  a residence  and  lot  in  Stanley,  in  the  growth  of  which 
city  he  is  much  interested.  He  is  a member  of  the  Sons  of  Norway  and  his 
religious  views  are  those  of  the  United  Lutheran  church.  A progressive  young 
man,  he  has  ambitiously  set  out  to  make  his  way  in  the  world  and,  choosing  the 
profession  most  suitable  to  his  tastes  and  abilities,  is  on  the  highroad  to  pros- 
perity. 


HUGH  J.  CALDER. 

Hugh  J.  Calder  owns  and  operates  a farm  of  two  hundred  acres  on  sec- 
tion 8,  Lafayette  township.  His  residence  in  Chippewa  county  covers  a period 
of  forty-two  years,  as  he  arrived  here  in  1871.  He  was  born  at  Lancaster, 
Grant  county,  Wisconsin,  February  12,  1855,  and  is  a son  of  Alexander  and 
Jane  (Johnson)  Calder.  The  father  was  a lumberman  in  the  employ  of  the 
Union  Lumber  Company  and  later  he  was  with  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom 
Company  for  thirteen  years.  Subsequently  he  retired  from  active  business  life  and 
made  his  home  with  his  son,  Hugh  J.,  passing  away  in  1896  at  the  venerable  age 
of  eighty  years.  His  remains  lie  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  His  wife 
had  long  preceded  him  to  the  home  beyond,  her  death  occurring  in  1862,  her 
grave  being  in  Lancaster,  Grant  county,  Wisconsin. 

Hugh  J.  Calder  acquired  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  left  the  high 
school  at  the  age  of  twenty-one  years.  He  afterward  worked  as  a scaler  for 
A,.  K.  Shaw  but  later  took  up  a homestead  of  eighty  acres  and  in  connection 
with  his  work  in  the  lumber  woods  improved  his  farm.  For  several  years  he 
carried  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  on  that  land  and  the  careful  methods 
which  he  employed  in  developing  his  land  enabled  him  to  win  success.  As  his 
financial  resources  increased  he  added  to  his  property  until  he  became  the  owner 
of  his  present  valuable  farm  of  two  hundred  acres  on  section  8,  Lafayette  town- 
ship. For  some  time  he  kept  large  flocks  of  sheep,  but  on  account  of  the  depre- 
dations made  upon  the  fold  by  the  wolves,  he  had  to  give  up  that  industry  and 
he  now  specializes  in  dairying,  keeping  fourteen  milch  cows  for  that  purpose. 
He  also  has  considerable  other  stock,  all  high  grade,  and  his  farm  is  splendidly 
equipped  with  all  that  goes  to  make  up  a model  farm  of  the  twentieth  century. 
In  addition  to  his  agricultural  interests  he  owns  stock  in  the  Melville  Settle- 
ment Telephone  Company,  being  one  of  its  first  subscribers. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  16th  of  November,  1903,  Mr.  Calder  was  mar- 
ried to  Miss  Johanna  Hall,  a daughter  of  James  and  Eliza  (Connell)  Hall, 
of  Eau  Claire,  both  of  whom  were  born  near  Dublin,  Ireland.  They  were  mar- 
ried in  that  country  and  came  to  America  about  1863.  The  mother  died  on  Febru- 


MR.  AND  MRS.  ALEXANDER  CALDER 


PIONEER  HOME  OF  HUGH  .1.  CARDER 


INTERIOR  OF  HUGH  J.  CARDER  PIONEER  HOME 


•*,,  >■ 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


281 


ary  16,  1893,  but  the  father  is  still  living  at  the  age  of  eighty-six  years  and  makes 
his  home  with  his  daughter,  Mrs.  Richard  Johnson,  in  Eau  Claire.  Mrs.  Calder 
was  formerly  a school  teacher  and  later  a bookkeeper  and  stenographer,  being 
thus  engaged  prior  to  her  marriage.  Two  children  have  been  born  of  this  union, 
Hugh  and  Elizabeth  J. 

In  politics  Mr.  Calder  is  a republican,  stalwart  in  support  of  the  party  and 
its  principles.  The  cause  of  education  finds  in  him  a warm  friend  and  for  twenty- 
one  years  he  has  served  as  a member  of  the  school  board,  during  which  time 
he  has  done  effective  work  in  behalf  of  public  instruction.  He  was  formerly 
identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he  is  still  a member 
of  the  Presbyterian  church.  Forty-two  years  have  come  and  gone  since  he  ar- 
rived in  this  county,  which  was  then  largely  a wilderness.  He  cleared  his  land 
during  the  first  two  years  of  his  occupancy  of  the  farm  with  a yoke  of  oxen. 
He  knows  what  it  is  to  work  hard,  but  through  perseverance  and  diligence  he 
has  overcome  many  obstacles  and  difficulties  and  his  success  is  evidenced  in 
the  fact  that  he  is  today  the  owner  of  a large,  well  improved  farm  with  a fine 
modern  residence  and  all  other  necessary  buildings.  His  success  may  be  at- 
tributed to  earnest,  indefatigable  effort  and  honesty  and  his  popularity  to  his 
upright  character. 


DAVID  J.  KEAN. 

David  J.  Kean,  a prominent  hardware  merchant  of  Stanley,  was  born  in 
Campbellton,  New  Brunswick,  March  1,  1859,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Susan 
(West)  Kean,  also  natives  of  Canada.  The  father  followed  farming  during 
all  of  his  active  life,  dying  in  1895.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home 
in  Canada  at  the  age  of  eighty-two.  To  their  union  were  born  eight  children : 
James,  John,  David  J.,  Margaret,  Caroline,  Katie,  Edward  and  May. 

David  J.  Kean  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Canada  which 
he  attended  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age.  He  began  his  independent  career 
as  a member  of  the  construction  crew  of  the  Canadian  Pacific  Railway,  and  this 
position  he  held  for  six  months.  Afterward  he  spent  a similar  period  of  time 
in  the  lumber  woods  around  Duluth,  Minnesota,  and  he  went  from  that  city  to 
Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  he  secured  a position  in  the  machine  shop.  At  the 
end  of  five  years  he  went  to  Ashland,  this  state,  and  worked  for  some  time  as 
an  engineer  and  machinist,  making  during  this  time,  the  first  steam  engine  ever 
constructed  in  Chippewa  county.  This  was  one  and  a half  horse  power  and  was 
used  for  ten  years  in  the  operation  of  the  Cadott  Blade,  a weekly  newspaper. 
During  the  period  of  his  residence  in  Ashland,  Mr.  Kean  also  spent  one  year 
in  the  sawmill  and  when  he  resigned  this  position,  returned  to  Canada,  where 
he  worked  in  a machine  shop.  He  afterward  held  a similar  position  for  one  year 
in  Eau  Claire  and  in  Cadott  spent  eight  years  as  machinist  and  engineer  for  the 
spoke  and  hub  company.  Eventually  he  purchased  one-half  interest  in  the 
Cadott  Stave  & Heading  Company  and  was  manager  of  this  concern  for  three 
years.  The  enterprise  was  destroyed  by  fire  at  the  end  of  that  time,  and  the 
company  ceased  to  exist.  Mr.  Kean  moved  to  Stanley,  where  he  opened  a hard- 

Vnl  TT — IS 


282 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ware  store,  with  which  he  is  now  connected.  He  has  been  very  successful  in  the 
conduct  of  this  enterprise,  his  stock  being  valued  at  six  thousand  dollars  and  his 
patronage  being  drawn  not  only  from  the  city,  but  from  the  surrounding  country 
as  well.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  National  Life  Insurance  Company  of  Osh- 
kosh, the  Inter-County  Fair  Association  and  he  owns  valuable  property,  includ- 
ing a residence  and  store  building  in  Stanley  and  forty  acres  of  farming  land 
on  section  io,  Delmar  township. 

Mr.  Kean  married  on  the  1 8th  of  October,  1888,  Miss  Annie  Stockle,  a daugh- 
ter of  Theodore  and  Victoria  Stockle,  the  former  a well  known  engineer.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Kean  have  two  children:  Winifred,  who  married  Harold  E.  Grigerson, 
assistant  cashier  in  the  Farmers  and  Merchants  State  Bank  of  Stanley,  and  Jack, 
who  is  associated  with  his  father  in  the  hardware  business. 

Mr.  Kean  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Order  of  Beavers  and  the  Equi- 
table Farmers  Union.  Ide  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party 
and  has  held  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  for  two  years 
as  city  clerk,  for  four  years  as  city  treasurer  and  for  nine  years  as  a member  of 
the  school  board.  He  manifests  sterling  ability,  not  only  in  business  connec- 
tions, but  also  in  all  other  relations  of  life  and  is  justly  accounted  one  of  the 
valuable  citizens  of  his  community. 


JOHN  KNAR. 

John  Knar,  proprietor  of  a large  wagon-making  and  blacksmith  shop  in 
Stanley,  was  born  in  Fond  du  Lac  county,  Ashford  township,  January  2,  1873. 
He  is  a son  of  Wuenzel  and  Katherine  (King)  Knar,  natives  of  Bohemia,  the 
former  born  in  1840  and  the  latter  in  1849.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  the  father 
came  to  Wisconsin  and  he  followed  farming  in  this  state  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1901.  His  wife  has  also  passed  away,  dying  in  1909.  To  their  union 
were  born  fifteen  children,  Jacob,  Peter,  Joseph,  John,  Mary,  Anna,  Theresa, 
William,  Sophia,  Johanna,  Frances,  Irma  L.,  and  three  who  died  in  infancy. 

John  Knar  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  his  native  town- 
ship, attending  until  he  was  twelve  years  of  age.  He  then  began  working  in  a 
blacksmith  shop  and  he  learned  the  trade  thoroughly.  After  seven  years  he 
opened  a shop  of  his  own  in  Stanley,  where  he  has  since  been  in  business.  In 
1894  he  replaced  his  original  premises  by  a modern  shop  thoroughly  equipped 
for  the  handling  of  a large  trade.  His  stock  and  shop  are  valued  at  thirty-five 
hundred  dollars  and  his  success  in  the  management  of  his  business  places  him 
among  the  substantial  and  representative  men  of  the  community. 

In  Edson  township,  this  county,  on  the  1 8th  of  February,  1896,  Mr.  Knar 
married  Miss  Maggie  Pinter,  a daughter  of  Peter  Pinter  and  a granddaughter  of 
one  of  the  first  settlers  in  Edson  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Knar  have  six  chil- 
dren, Irma  AT,  Cecilia,  Margaret,  Catherine,  Marie  and  John  L.,  all  of  whom 
reside  at  home. 

Mr.  Knar  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Mystic  Workers  and  the  Owls.  He  is  a democrat  in  his  polit- 
ical beliefs  and  served  for  two  terms  as  deputy  sheriff  and  for  one  term  as 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


283 


alderman  from  the  fourth  ward.  He  has  never  neglected  any  of  the  duties  of 
citizenship  but  his  attention  is  chiefly  concentrated  upon  his  business  affairs,  in 
which  he  has  met  with  enviable  and  well  deserved  success. 


A.  N.  AMBLE. 

A.  N.  Amble,,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  a quarter  sec- 
tion of  land  eight  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Auburn  township 
two  miles  from  his  present  property  in  1870,  a son  of  Nels  Olson,  a native  of 
Norway.  The  father  came  to  America  in  1861  and  settled  in  Chippewa  county 
where  he  engaged  in  farming  until  his  death,  which  occurred  when  he  was  sev- 
enty-two years  of  age.  He  married  in  Norway,  Miss  Carine  Gunderud  and  they 
became  the  parents  of  ten  children,  six  of  whom  survive. 

A.  N.  Amble  was  reared  upon  his  father’s  farm  in  Auburn  township  and 
acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he 
purchased  a quarter  section  of  land  eight  miles  from  Bloomer  and  upon  this 
property  has  since  resided,  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying.  He  has 
made  extensive  improvements  upon  the  place,  erecting  new  buildings  and  add- 
ing to  its  equipment,  and  he  is  now  in  possession  of  one  of  the  finest  farms  in  his 
section  of  the  county. 

Mr.  Amble  married  Miss  Anna  Rice  and  they  are  the  parents  of  four  chil- 
dren: Norman,  George,  Hilmer  and  Wilhelm.  Mr.  Amble  is  a devout  member 
of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  which  his  father  assisted  in  organizing  in 
1863,  and  he  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  known  as  a public- 
spirited  citizen  as  well  as  a progressive  farmer  and  enjoys  a high  standing  in  his 
native  township. 


OLE  T.  HOFF. 

Since  1891  Ole  T.  Hoff  of  Stanley  has  been  connected  with  the  Northwestern 
Lumber  Company  and  he  has  advanced  rapidly  through  various  positions  until 
he  is  today  in  charge  of  the  retail  lumber  department.  He  was  born  in  Norway, 
March  9,  1863,  a son  of  Thomas  T.  and  Gertrude  (Hugdahl)  Hoff,  also  natives 
of  that  country,  both  born  in  1831.  The  mother  died  in  1910  and  is  survived  by 
her  husband,  who  makes  his  home  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin.  In  their  family 
were  six  children,  Thomas,  Ole  T.,  Ida,  William,  Julia  and  Oscar. 

Ole  T.  Hoff  attended  public  school  in  Norway  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of 
age  and  then  worked  upon  a farm  and  in  a livery  stable  until  he  was  eighteen. 
He  came  to  America  in  1881  and  settled  in  Menomonie,  Wisconsin.  His  par- 
ents came  to  this  country  in  1883  and  settled  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin.  He  after- 
ward moved  to  Dowsville,  where  he  worked  for  one  year  in  a sawmill,  later  going 
to  Eau  Claire  and  continuing  in  the  lumber  business  there  until  1887.  He 
worked  at  various  occupations  until  1891  and  in  that  year  became  connected  with 
the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  as  a grader.  He  has  since  advanced  through 


284 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


various  positions  and  is  today  manager  of  the  retail  lumber  department.  He  has 
been  very  successful  in  this  difficult  and  responsible  position  and  is  accounted 
one  of  the  most  reliable  and  trustworthy  of  the  company’s  representatives. 

On  the  13th  of  April,  1889,  Mr.  Hoff  married  Miss  Inga  Eggen,  a daughter 
of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ole  Eggen,  natives  of  Norway.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hoff  have  rive 
children,  Thomas  G.,  Olga,  Selma,  Oscar  and  Lawrence.  Mr.  Hoff  is  connected 
fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America,  is  a republican  in  his  polit- 
ical beliefs  and  a member  of  the  United  Lutheran  church.  His  life  has  been 
one  of  well  directed  activity  and  intelligent  effort,  resulting  in  the  attainment 
of  a fair  measure  of  success,  and  wherever  he  is  known  he  is  honored  and 
respected  by  reason  of  his  genuine  personal  worth. 


CONRAD  GEHRING. 

Farming  interests  of  Auburn  township  find  a worthy  and  progressive  repre- 
sentative in  Conrad  Gehring,  who  since  1864  has  resided  in  Chippewa  countv 
and  who  has  spent  his  entire  active  life  upon  his  present  farm.  He  was  born  in 
Germany  in  1852  and  came  to  the  United  States  in  1864,  acquiring  his  education 
in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county,  where  his  parents  settled.  After  lay- 
ing aside  his  books  he  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Auburn  town- 
ship, six  miles  west  of  Pdoomer,  and  upon  this  property  he  has  since  resided, 
the  years  bringing  him  steadily  increasing  success  and  prominence.  He  cleared  the 
entire  tract  and  erected  all  of  the  buildings  and  the  farm  today  represents  the 
result  of  many  years  of  well  directed  energy  and  constant  labor. 

In  1879  Mr.  Gehring  married  Miss  Annie  Fehr,  and  they  have  ten  children, 
Annie,  Gus,  Fred,  Lizzie,  Joseph,  David,  Mary,  Bertha,  Henry  and  Carl.  Mr. 
Gehring  is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  He  has  for  twenty-five  years  been  a member  of  the  school 
board  and  is  now  serving  as  clerk  of  that  body.  He  enjoys  the  respect  of  all  with 
whom  business,  social  or  official  relations  have  brought  him  into  contact  and  he 
takes  just  pride  in  what  has  been  accomplished  in  Chippewa  county,  while  at 
all  times  he  has  borne  his  full  share  in  the  work  of  general  improvement. 


MATHEW  GRUBER. 

Mathew  Gruber,  a popular  and  valued  citizen  of  Stanley,  was  born  in  Ger- 
many, February  5,  1874.  He  is  a son  of  Mathew  and  Josephine  (Hulstead) 
Gruber,  also  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1843  and  the  latter  in  1848. 
They  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1885  and  here  the  father  engaged  in  farming  until 
his  death,  which  occurred  in  1905.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home 
at  Stanley.  To  their  union  were  born  eighteen  children,  eleven  of  whom  are 
still  living:  Lena,  May,  Antone,  John,  Mathew,  Josephine,  Annie,  Frank,  Theresa, 
Susie  and  Hanna. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


285 


Mathew  Gruber  attended  public  school  in  Germany  until  he  was  eleven  years 
of  age  and  then  came  to  America,  settling  in  Wisconsin  in  1885.  He  pursued 
his  education  in  this  state  for  one  year  thereafter  and  then  began  working  on  a 
railroad  and  in  the  lumber  woods.  He  was  foreman  of  a section  gang  for  seven 
years,  resigning  this  position  in  1900,  when  he  opened  a saloon  in  Stanley.  In 
1906  he  built  the  opera  house  in  that  city  and  this  enterprise  he  still  conducts, 
being  known  as  a farsighted  and  capable  business  man  who  has  met  with  grati- 
fying and  deserved  success. 

At  Thorp,  on  the  13th  of  November,  1896,  Mr.  Gruber  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Theresa  Ramer,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Michael  Ramer,  the 
former  a well  known  farmer  of  that  locality.  Mr.  and  Airs.  Gruber  have  become 
the  parents  of  seven  children,  Ella,  Alichael,  Reinhardt,  Francesca,  Florence, 
Alfred  and  Adeline. 

Mr.  Gruber  is  a stockholder  in  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State  Bank  of 
Stanley  and  has  valuable  property  interests  there,  owning  in  addition  to  the  busi- 
ness above  mentioned  a valuable  tract  of  land  adjoining  his  theater.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church,  is  connected  with  the  Catholic  Order  of 
Foresters  and  votes  independently,  supporting  men  and  measures  rather  than 
parties.  He  has  many  friends  in  Stanley  and  his  ability  is  recognized  and  re- 
spected in  business  circles. 


GEORGE  FINSTAD. 

George  Finstad,  owner  of  the  Prairie  View  farm  in  Bloomer  township,  a fine 
property  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  lying  two  and  a half  miles  southeast 
of  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Norway  in  1857.  He  is  a son  of  Jens  E.  Finstad,  who 
emigrated  to  America  and  settled  in  Wisconsin,  where  he  passed  away  when  he 
was  past  sixty-five  years  of  age.  He  married  in  Norway  and  his  wife  died  when 
the  subject  of  this  review  was  thirteen  years  of  age. 

At  the  age  of  fifteen  George  Finstad  accompanied  his  father  to  America, 
completing  an  education  begun  in  Norway  in  the  public  schools  of  Eagle  Prairie. 
After  laying  aside  his  books  he  turned  his  attention  to  work  in  the  sawmills 
and  was  first  in  the  employ  of  Pete  Johnson  and  later  in  that  of  Stanley  Brothers 
for  two  years.  He  worked  for  one  summer  in  the  Badger  Mills  and  later  in 
the  sawmill  in  Chippewa  Falls.  For  thirteen  summers  he  continued  thus,  spend- 
ing his  winters  in  the  pine  woods,  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  he  married  and 
began  working  on  his  father-in-law’s  farm.  While  thus  engaged  he  purchased 
his  present  property  in  Bloomer  township  and  here  he  has  steadily  carried  for- 
ward the  work  of  improvement,  fencing  the  fields  and  erecting  a comfortable  resi- 
dence, barns  and  outbuildings.  He  has  neglected  nothing  which  would  add  to 
the  attractiveness  of  the  place  and  by  his  careful  supervision  and  practical  man- 
agement has  made  Prairie  View  farm  one  of  the  valuable  properties  of  this  locality. 

Mr.  Finstad  married  Aliss  Lena  Larson,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  four 
children : Minnie,  who  has  passed  away ; Minnie,  the  second  of  the  name,  who 

married  Jake  Scritsmier  and  lives  in  Chicago ; Jalmer ; and  Alma.  Mr.  Finstad 
is  a member,  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern 


286 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  for  the  past 
ten  or  twelve  years  has  served  as  school  treasurer.  He  is  not  only  able,  indus- 
trious and  enterprising  but  is  also  a man  of  high  moral  character  and  is  greatly 
esteemed  both  as  a farmer  and  a business  man  in  his  township. 


ANDREW  P.  LIEN,  D.  V.  S. 

Although  quite  a young  man  Dr.  Andrew  P.  Lien  already  enjoys  an  extensive 
practice  as  a veterinary  surgeon  in  Stanley,  where  he  located  in  1912  after  his 
graduation  from  the  Chicago  Veterinary  College.  He  was  born  at  Hanley  Falls, 
Minnesota,  January  9,  1888,  and  is  a son  of  Peter  and  Giniah  (Faldt)  Lien,  the 
former  born  in  Norway  in  1855  and  the  latter  also  a native  of  that  country,  born 
in  1871.  The  father  is  a farmer  by  occupation  and  at  the  age  of  twenty-seven 
came  from  his  native  country  to  America.  He  first  settled  in  Minnesota  but  is 
now  a resident  of  Stanley.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of^  four  children : 
Minnie  M.,  who  is  employed  in  a store  in  Minneapolis,  Minnesota;  Andrew  P., 
of  this  review;  Mary  H.,  who  fills  a position  as  bookkeeper;  and  Samuel,  assist- 
ant cashier  in  the  Farmers  & Merchants  Bank  of  Stanley. 

Andrew  P.  Lien  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  and  subsequently  attended 
the  Chicago  Veterinary  College,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1912.  He  then 
opened  an  office  in  Stanley  and  his  business  has  since  grown  rapidly.  He  is 
young,  enthusiastic  and  popular.  Religiously  lie  is  connected  with  the  United 
Lutheran  church,  fraternally  with  the  Masons  and  the  I.  S.  W.  A.,  and  politi- 
cally with  the  republican  party.  Not  only  is  he  a doctor  of  animals  but  also  a 
lover  of  animals,  as  every  man  in  his  position  should  be.  He  is  particularly 
fond  of  horses  and  can  often  be  seen  driving  or  riding  in  the  neighborhood.  Dr. 
Lien  has  made  an  auspicious  beginning  toward  a successful  career  and  it  may 
be  safely  prophesied  that  the  future  will  bring  him  all  that  he  may  desire  in  life. 


W.  B.  SVETLIK. 

W.  B.  Svetlik,  the  efficient  and  capable  manager  of  the  Svetlik  Milling  Com- 
pany, of  Cadott,  was  born  in  Manitowoc  county,  this  state,  September  23,  1883. 
He  is  a son  of  Jacob  and  Anna  (Shuber)  Svetlik,  natives  of  Bohemia,  the  former 
born  in  1846  and  the  latter  in  1850.  The  father  was  engaged  in  farming  in 
Manitowoc  county,  Wisconsin,  and  Jackson  county,  Minnesota,  for  many  years 
and  was  principal  stockholder  of  a flourmill  in  Cadott.  He  retired  from  active 
life  in  1913.  His  wife  has  passed  away,  her  death  having  occurred  in  1907.  To 
their  union  were  born  nine  children:  Joseph,  Mary,  Frank,  Anna,  W.  B.,  Fred  G., 
Henry,  Rose  and  Julia. 

W.  B.  Svetlik  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Jackson,  Min- 
nesota, which  he  attended  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward 
worked  upon  the  farm  for  about  two  years,  but  at  the  end  of  that  time  turned 
his  attention  to  the  flour  milling  business,  with  which  he  has  been  identified  for 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


287 


the  past  ten  years.  He  is  a stockholder,  director  and  manager  of  the  Svetlik 
Milling  Company  and  under  his  direction  this  has  become  a large  and  flourishing 
enterprise  and  an  important  addition  to  the  industrial  resources  of  the  section. 

Mr.  Svetlik  is  a member  of  the  St.  Rose  of  Lima  Roman  Catholic  church  of 
Cadott  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters.  He  is 
independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  interested  in  public  affairs,  although  never 
active  as  an  office  seeker.  A young  man  of  business  ability,  enterprise  and  energy, 
he  has  already  gained  an  enviable  position  in  business  circles  and  his  continued 
advancement  is  assured. 


H.  O.  RICE. 

Auburn  township  numbers  among  its  most  progressive  and  successful  agri- 
culturists H.  O.  Rice,  who  for  the  past  twenty-six  years  has  lived  upon  his  farm 
of  eighty-eight  acres  nine  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  in  Nor- 
way on  the  ist  of  October,  1855,  and  is  a son  of  Ole  Rice  who  came  to  the 
United  States  about  1899  and  died  in  Barron  county,  this  state,  when  he  was 
seventy-six  years  of  age.  He  married  Miss  Ella  Hanson  and  they  became  the 
parents  of  five  children. 

H.  O.  Rice  was  reared  in  his  parents’  home  in  Norway,  and  acquired  his 
education  in  the  public  schools  of  that  country.  After  laying  aside  his  books 
he  worked  at  tailoring  until  he  was  twenty-one  and  then  joined  the  army,  remain- 
ing for  two  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  agricul- 
tural pursuits,  working  upon  a farm  in  Norway  until  he  came  to  the  United 
States  in  1880.  He  settled  immediately  in  Chippewa  county,  and  for  seven 
years  thereafter  worked  on  farms  and  in  the  woods.  In  1887  he  purchased  land 
of  his  own,  buying  the  eighty-eight  acres  in  Auburn  township  whereon  he  has 
since  resided.  During  the  intervening  years  he  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings 
upon  the  place  and  made  other  substantial  improvements,  his  farm  being  today 
one  of  the  finest  and  best  equipped  in  his  section  of  the  county. 

Mr.  Rice's  wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Mary  Hanson.  Mr.  Rice  gives 
his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  a devout  member  of  the 
Norwegian  Lutheran  church.  Having  resided  in  Auburn  township  for  the  past 
thirty-three  years  he  has  become  well  known  there  and  his  genuine  personal 
worth  has  greatly  endeared  him  to  many  friends. 


WILLIAM  T.  HOFF. 

William  T.  Hoff  is  manager  of  the  mill  room  for  the  Northwestern  Lumber 
Company  at  Stanley  and  is  well  qualified  for  the  responsible  duties  which  devolve 
upon  him  in  this  connection.  He  is  one  of  the  worthy  sons  that  Norway  has  fur- 
nished to  this  county,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  that  country  on  the  6th  of 
March,  1868.  His  parents  were  Thomas  T.  and  Gertrude  (Hugdahl)  Hoff,  both 
natives  of  Norway  and  born  in  the  year  1831.  The  father  is  now  a resident  of 


288 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Eau  Claire,  but  the  mother  passed  away  in  1910.  In  their  family  were  six  chil- 
dren: Thomas,  Ole,  Ida,  William,  Julia  and  Oscar. 

The  public  schools  of  Norway  afforded  William  T.  Hoff  his  educational 
privileges.  He  pursued  his  studies  to  the  age  of  fifteen  years  and  then  came  to 
America  in  company  with  his  parents,  going  first  to  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin. 
He  was  employed  in  a planing  mill  in  Eau  Claire  until  1893  and  then  entered  the 
service  of  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  as  assistant  foreman.  Since 
1908  he  has  been  foreman  of  the  mill  room  at  Stanley  and  has  made  a creditable 
record  in  that  connection.  He  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward  since  start- 
ing out  in  the  business  world  at  the  age  of  fifteen  years  and  is  now  one  of  the 
well  known  mill  men  of  his  section. 

Mr.  Hoff  was  married  to  Miss  Martha  L.  Larson,  a daughter  of  Lars  Solo- 
mon, a salesman  who  was  murdered  by  a highwayman  while  going  by  boat  from 
one  town  to  another.  The  mother,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Brita  Torger- 
son,  has  also  passed  away.  The  marriage  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hoff  was  celebrated 
at  Eau  Claire  on  the  21st  of  November,  1892,  and  unto  them  have  been  born 
seven  children:  Thomas  G.,  Eliza  B.,  Edna  L.,  Guy  1.,  Helen  M.,  Walton  M. 
and  Reuben  L.  The  family  occupy  a pleasant  residence  which  Mr.  Hoff  owns  and 
which  is  the  visible  evidence  of  his  life  of  well  directed  energy  and  thrift. 

Mr.  Hoff  is  a member  of  the  Modern  Woodmen  camp  and  also  of  the  1.  S. 
W.  A.  His  political  support  is  given  to  the  republican  party  but  he  does  not 
seek  nor  hold  office.  He  belongs  to  the  Lutheran  church  and  at  the  time  of  the 
erection  of  the  house  of  worship  was  a member  of  both  the  building  and  finance 
committees.  He  is  interested  in  all  that  pertains  to  the  moral  development  of 
the  community  as  well  as  to  its  material  progress.  His  life  has  been  a busy, 
active  and  useful  one  and  the  years  have  brought  him  success  which  is  well 
merited. 


GUSTAVE  E.  RHEINGANS. 

Gustave  E.  Rheingans  is  residing  upon  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres, 
situated  on  the  outskirts  of  Eagleton,  and  is  devoting  his  time  and  energies  to' 
the  further  development  and  improvement  of  the  land,  which  is  now  under  a 
high  state  of  cultivation.  He  was  born  upon  this  place  in  1890,  and  is  a son  of 
Jacob  Rheingans,  a native  of  Germany,  who  was  brought  to  the  United  States 
when  a young  lad.  In  his  youth  and  early  manhood  he  was  employed  at  various 
places.  He  was  largely  reared  in  Washington  county,  Wisconsin,  and  worked 
on  the  Chippewa  and  Mississippi  rivers  at  rafting  and  at  other  labor.  Later, 
however,  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  settled  upon  the  present  homestead 
farm,  which  he  began  to  develop  and  improve,  his  labors  bringing  about  a not- 
able change  in  the  appearance  of  the  place.  He  erected  a comfortable  home  and 
substantial  outbuildings  and  he  cleared  the  entire  farm,  which  was  covered  with 
brush  and  timber  when  he  took  possession  of  it.  He  was  one  of  the  first  set- 
tlers in  the  section  of  the  county  in  which  the  homestead  is  located  and  he  resided 
upon  his  farm  there  until  death  called  him  in  1909-  when  he  was  sixty-eight 
years  of  age.  It  was  while  a resident  of  Washington  county  that  he  was  mar- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


289 


ried  there  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Koenig,  who  still  survives  and  makes  her  home  with 
her  son  Gust.  They  were  the  parents  of  ten  children,  seven  sons  and  three 
daughters,  namely:  Valentine,  George,  John,  Henry,  Fred,  Gustave,  Carl,  Mrs. 
Mary  Small,  Mrs.  Bertha  Steinmetz  and  Mrs.  Annie  Heidke. 

Like  most  boys,  Gustave  E.  Rheingans  attended  the  public  schools  in  pursuance 
of  his  purpose  of  acquiring  an  education.  After  he  had  mastered  the  various 
branches  of  learning  therein  taught,  he  put  aside  his  text-books  in  order  to  give 
his  entire  attention  to  farm  work.  He  had  early  become  familiar  with  the  best 
methods  of  preparing  the  soil  and  caring  for  the  crops  and  he  and  his  brother 
Carl  now  operate  the  home  place,  which  his  mother  still  owns.  The  land  has 
been  brought  to  a high  state  of  cultivation  and  the  farm  presents  a neat  and 
attractive  appearance,  indicating  the  enterprising  and  progressive  methods  of  the 
brothers  who  are  in  charge. 

In  politics  Gustave  E.  Rheingans  is  a republican  but  the  honors  and  emolu- 
ments of  office  have  little  attraction  for  him.  He  holds  membership  with  the 
A.  S.  of  E.  and  he  also  belongs  to  the  German  Lutheran  church.  He  has  never 
known  any  other  home  than  the  farm  upon  which  he  resides  and  he  is  therefore 
greatly  attached  to  the  place  through  the  associations  of  his  boyhood  as  well  as 
those  of  later  years. 


GEORGE  H.  CHAPMAN. 

Wisconsin  has  long  been  one  of  the  chief  centers  of  the  lumber  trade  of 
America,  and  industrial  activity  in  Stanley  has  to  do  largely  with  this  branch  of 
business.  The  North  Western  Lumber  Company  is  one  of  the  chief  industries 
at  that  point,  and  in  control  of  active  work  there  are  many  men  thoroughly 
acquainted  with  the  lumber  business  in  all  of  its  different  phases,  and  splendidly 
qualified  to  engage  in  the  work  which  claims  their  attention  and  energy.  Among 
this  number  is  George  H.  Chapman,  wide-awake,  alert  and  energetic,  capably 
filling  his  position  as  general  manager  for  the  North  Western  Lumber  Company 
at  Stanley.  He  was  born  in  Indianapolis,  Indiana,  January  30,  1867.  His  father, 
George  H.  Chapman,  Sr.,  was  a native  of  the  state  of  New  York.  He  devoted 
his  life  to  the  practice  of  law  and  passed  away  in  1882.  In  early  manhood  he 
married  Hannah  Gilman,  who  was  born  in  Ohio  in  1846,  and.  surviving  him  for 
three  decades,  died  in  1912.  In  their  family  were  six  children:  Pauline,  George 
H.,  Lawrence  G.,  Morris,  Page  and  Victor. 

The  eldest  son,  George  H.  Chapman,  was  educated  in  a private  school  of 
Indianapolis  and  in  the  Rose  Polytechnic  Institute  of  Terre  Haute,  from  which 
he  was  graduated  in  1888.  For  six  months  he  worked  for  the  Jenny  Electrical 
Company  and  then  entered  the  employ  of  the  North  Western  Lumber  Company, 
with  which  he  has  been  connected  since  1889.  He  has  held  various  positions  with 
the  corporation,  doing  both  inside  and  outside  work.  Step  by  step  he  has  ad- 
vanced and  thus  gradually  working  his  way  upward,  he  has  reached  a position  of 
prominence  and  one  which  indicates  his  capability  and  fidelity.  He  has  been  gen- 
eral manager  of  the  Stanley  plant  since  1903,  and  thus  has  control  over  an  impor- 
tant industry,  each  part  of  which  he  carefully  supervises.  His  long  and  varied 


290 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


experience  well  qualifies  him  for  the  undertaking  and  his  position  as  a business 
man  is  an  enviable  one.  Mr.  Chapman  is  now  one  of  the  stockholders  and  the 
second  vice  president  of  the  North  Western  Lumber  Company.  His  keen  intellect 
has  been  sought  in  other  connections  and  he  is  now  secretary  and  one  of  the  stock- 
holders of  the  Linderman  Box  and  Veneer  Company  of  Eau  Claire  and  treasurer 
and  stockholder  in  the  Below  Lumber  Company  of  Marshfield,  Wisconsin.  A 
greater  part  of  his  time  and  attention,  however,  is  devoted  to  the  interests  of  the 
North  Western  Lumber  Company  and  he  is  a most  energetic  young  man,  meet- 
ing with  substantial  success,  as  a result  of  his  intelligently  directed  labors. 

On  the  30th  of  August,  1898,  Mr.  Chapman  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Harriet  S.  Hubbard,  the  wedding  being  celebrated  at  Eau  Claire  and  the  mar- 
riage has  been  blessed  with  two  children,  Victor  James  and  Harriet  Mary. 

Mr.  Chapman  holds  membership  with  the  Royal  Arcanum  and  the  Benevolent 
and  Protective  Order  of  Elks  and  gives  his  political  support  to  the  republican 
party.  He  is  a member  of  the  library  board  of  Stanley,  and  is  interested  in  all 
that  pertains  to  the  welfare  and  upbuilding  of  the  town.  He  is  actuated  in  all  that 
he  does  by  a public  spirit  that  is  manifest  in  many  tangible  ways  for  the  general 
good  and  in  all  of  his  business  affairs  he  has  labored  along  the  lines  which  pro- 
mote public  prosperity  as  well  as  individual  success. 


J OMN  C H R I S T I A N SON. 

Chippewa  county  is  indebted  in  large  measure  to  Norway  for  a goodly  per- 
centage of  her  enterprising  citizens,  which  number  includes  John  Christianson,  who 
is  actively  and  successfully  engaged  in  farming  on  a tract  of  land  of  two  hundred 
and  forty  acres  in  Auburn  township,  about  ten  miles  northwest  of  Bloomer.  Lie 
was  born  in  the  land  of  the  midnight  sun  about  fifty-eight  years  ago,  his  father 
being  Christian  Olson,  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1880  and  made  his  way 
to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  followed  farming.  Lie  continued  his  residence  in 
this  county  throughout  his  remaining  days  and  reached  the  venerable  age  of  eighty 
years,  passing  away  in  1899.  He  was  married  twice,  but  lost  his  first  wife  in  Nor- 
way, before  his  emigration  to  the  new  world. 

John  Christianson  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Norway  and  afterward 
learned  the  mason's  trade,  becoming  a good  workman  in  that  branch  of  business. 
Favorable  reports  reached  him  concerning  the  new  w'orld  and  the  opportunities 
there  offered  in  a business  way,  and  at  the  age  of  twenty-six  he  completed  his 
arrangements  to  come  to  the  United  States.  Making  his  way  across  the  Atlantic, 
he  continued  his  journey  overland  to  Wisconsin.  He  worked  for  thirty  years  in 
Chippewa  county  as  a stone  mason  in  addition  to  farming.  In  1855  he  made  his 
way  to  his  present  place  of  residence  and  has  cleared  most  of  a tract  of  land  of  two 
hundred  and  forty  acres,  cutting  away  the  trees  and  brush  and  transforming  the 
wild  district  into  highly  cultivated  fields.  He  follows  diversified  farming,  rais- 
ing the  various  crops  best  adapted  to  climatic  conditions  and  to  the  soil.  He  also 
conducts  a good  dairy  business,  keeping  a number  of  high-grade  cows  for  this 
purpose.  He  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  his  place  and  has  a well  improved 
property,  which  is  indicative  of  his  progressive  spirit  and  enterprising  methods. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


291 


Mr.  Christianson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Anna  Larson  and  they 
became  the  parents  of  nine  children,  who  are  yet  living,  namely : Carl,  Oscar,  Ole, 
Sam,  Gus,  Lowe,  Manville,  Peter  and  Theodore.  They  also  lost  one  son, 
Arthur,  who  was  the  sixth  in  order  of  birth. 

Mr.  Christianson’s  study  of  the  political  conditions  and  issues  of  the  day 
has  led  him  to  give  stalwart  support  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  guided  in 
his  life  by  a firm  religious  faith  that  is  manifest  in  his  membership  in  the 
Norwegian  church.  He  has  always  endeavored  to  live  peaceably  with  his  fel- 
lowmen,  to  deal  righteously  with  all,  and  in  following  the  golden  rule,  he  has 
won  the  high  respect  and  unqualified  confidence  of  all  with  whom  he  has  been 
brought  in  contact. 


FATHER  JOHN  G.  LAURER. 

Father  John  G.  Laurer  is  pastor  of  St.  Paul’s  Catholic  church  of  Bloomer,  in 
which  connection  he  has  marked  influence  over  the  moral  progress  of  the  com- 
munity, especially  among  his  parishioners,  who  entertain  for  him  the  highest 
regard  and  respect.  He  was  born  in  Bavaria  in  the  ioth  of  September,  1861,  and 
after  attending  the  common  schools  continued  his  education  in  a classical  course 
at  Passau  and  Straubing,  Bavaria.  He  came  to  America  in  young  manhood,  arriv- 
ing in  this  country  in  December,  1882,  after  which  he  studied  in  St.  Vincent's 
College  of  Pennsylvania  and  in  St.  Francis  Seminary  of  Milwaukee.  He  was 
ordained  on  the  24th  of  June,  1887,  and  having  taken  Holy  Orders  was  assigned 
to  duty  as  priest  of  St.  Mary’s  church  in  Monroe  county,  Wisconsin.  He  after- 
ward served  the  church  at  Keyesville,  Richland  county,  and  at  Plain,  Sauk  county, 
and  was  stationed  at  Mosinee,  Marathon  county,  before  coming  to  Bloomer,  being 
transferred  to  the  latter  charge  on  the  5th  of  January,  1910.  He  there  has  a con- 
gregation of  two  hundred  and  thirty  families,  including  St.  Catherine’s  congrega- 
tion in  Brush  Prairie,  four  miles  from  Bloomer.  The  work  has  been  well  organ- 
ized under  the  direction  of  Father  Laurer  and  he  expects  soon  to  erect  a house 
for  the  sisters  and  also  a new  schoolhouse.  He  has  inspired  his  parishioners  with 
much  of  his  own  zeal  and  interest  in  the  work  and  he  is  a popular  priest,  greatly 
esteemed  by  those  who  are  under  his  moral  guidance. 


ROBERT  A.  LA  BLANC. 

Mercantile  interests  of  Stanley  find  a progressive  and  worthy  representative  in 
Robert  A.  La  Blanc,  who  since  1908  has  conducted  a grocery  and  confectionery 
store  in  the  town.  He  was  born  in  Canada,  July  18,  1867,  and  is  a son  of  Alexander 
and  Margaret  (Nellis)  La  Blanc,  also  natives  of  the  Dominion,  the  former  born  in 
1833  and  the  latter  in  1839.  The  father  still  makes  his  home  in  Canada  where 
he  conducts  a small  grocery  store.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  nine 
children:  Philip,  Robert  A.  and  Ellen;  Margaret,  who  died  in  infancy;  Eliza- 
beth A.;  Joseph,  who  passed  away  in  1911  ; Bridget,  Stephen  and  Ernest. 


292 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Robert  A.  La  Blanc  attended  school  in  Canada  until  he  was  fourteen  vears 
of  age  and  afterward  worked  upon  a farm  until  he  was  twenty-five.  At  that 
time  he  came  to  the  United  States,  settling  in  Eau  Claire,  this  state,  where  he 
worked  at  logging  in  the  woods  and  on  the  rivers  until  1899.  In  that  year  he 
moved  into  Stanley  and  opened  a saloon  which  after  conducting  successfully  for 
nine  years  he  sold,  establishing  himself  in  the  grocery  and  confectionery  business 
in  which  he  has  since  remained.  He  handles  only  high  class  goods  and  has  built 
up  a large  and  representative  patronage  which  is  steadily  increasing  as  his  straight- 
forward business  methods  and  honorable  standards  become  more  widely  known. 
Mr.  La  Blanc  is  a stockholder  in  the  Farmers  and  Merchants  State  Bank  and  his 
wife  owns  a store  building  and  two  residences  in  Stanley. 

On  the  24th  of  November,  1912,  in  Stanley,  Mr.  La  Blanc  married  Mrs.  Lucy 
Knor,  a daughter  of  John  Laner.  She  has  one  child  by  her  former  marriage,  a 
daughter,  Mary.  Mr.  La  Blanc  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic 
party  and  he  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  By  his  own  industry, 
enterprise  and  well  directed  efforts  he  has  worked  his  way  upward  to  success 
and  he  occupies  a prominent  place  in  business  circles  of  Stanley,  holding  the 
esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  in  any  way  associated  with  him. 


ARTHUR  A.  MYERS. 


Arthur  A.  Myers  is  vice  president  of  the  Miller-Myers  Implement  Company 
at  Stanley,  where  he  has  lived  since  1904.  Through  the  intervening  period  of 
nine  years  he  has  been  connected  with  the  business  in  which  he  is  now  engaged, 
and  his  trade  methods  are  such  as  will  bear  the  closest  investigation  and  scrutiny. 
Lie  was  born  at  Eau  Galle,  Wisconsin,  January  26,  1878,  and  is  a son  of  Tinkey 
C.,  and  Dorcas  (Seger)  Myers.  The  father,  a native  of  Indiana,  was  born  in 
1846,  while  the  mother’s  birth  occurred  in  the  state  of  New  York  in  1847.  He 
made  farming  his  life  work,  but  is  now  living  retired  at  Eau  Galle,  where  he  has 
lived  since  1901.  Unto  this  marriage  were  born  five  children:  Joseph;  Arthur; 

and  Lettie,  and  two  who  died  in  early  life.  The  elder  son  married  Muss  Mate 
Joiner  and  they  have  one  child.  Their  home  is  upon  a farm  near  Eau  Galle. 

In  the  public  schools,  Arthur  A.  Myers  pursued  his  education  until  he  reached 
the  age  of  sixteen  years,  after  which  he  devoted  a year  and  a half  to  the  profes- 
sion of  teaching.  He  then  returned  to  his  father’s  farm  which  he  assisted  in 
cultivating  and  improving  for  two  years,  at  the  end  of  which  time  he  invested  his 
earnings  in  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land.  He  farmed  that  tract  for 
two  years  and  then  sold  the  property,  after  which  he  came  to  Stanley  in  1904. 
There  he  bought  a third  interest  in  the  implement  and  vehicle  business  of  which 
he  is  now  vice  president.  He  has  thoroughly  studied  the  conditions  of  the  trade 
and  the  wishes  of  his  patrons,  and  by  honorable  business  methods  and  unfaltering 
enterprise,  is  building  up  a business  which  enjoys  extensive  and  gratifying 
prosperity. 

On  the  20th  of  February,  1902,  Mr.  Myers  was  married  to  Miss  Ella  Miller, 
a daughter  of  F.  O.  AT iller,  of  Stanley,  who  is  president  of  the  Miller-Myers 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


293 


Implement  Company.  To  them  have  been  born  three  children:  Zeona,  Loma 
and  La  Moine.  The  family  occupies  a pleasant  home  which  Mr.  Myers  owns. 

He  is  also  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  of  the 
Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  Progress  and  enterprise  actuate  him  in  all  that 
he  does  and  he  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  leading  young  business  men  of  Stanley, 
held  in  high  esteem  by  all  with  whom  he  has  come  in  contact. 


IVER  CHRISTIANSON. 

Iver  Christianson  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  since  1881  and  is  now  classed 
with  representative  and  successful  agriculturists  of  this  locality,  owning  and 
operating  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  thirteen  and  a half  acres,  nine  miles 
southwest  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  in  Norway  in  September,  1843,  and  acquired 
his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  that  country.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he 
worked  as  a stone  mason  under  his  father  until  1881  when  he  emigrated  to 
America.  He  came  directly  to  Chippewa  county  and  began  working  at  his  trade, 
following  this  in  various  localities  for  several  years.  He  afterward  purchased 
land  in  Auburn  township  and  this  he  still  owns,  his  farm  comprising  one  hundred 
and  thirteen  acres  It  was  in  an  unimproved  condition  when  it  came  into  his 
possession  but  he  cleared  it  of  the  timber  and  erected  the  necessary  buildings, 
making  it  finally  a valuable  and  productive  property.  He  is  now  living  practi- 
cally retired  but  still  gives  personal  supervision  to  the  management  of  his  farm. 

Mr.  Christianson  married  in  Norway,  Miss  Randi  Marie  Halvarson  who  died 
in  1911.  They  had  six  children:  Carrie;  Anna,  who  has  passed  away;  Anna, 
second  of  the  name,  also  deceased:  Mila,  deceased;  Hartwill  and  Ida.  Mr.  Chris- 
tianson gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  a member  of 
the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church.  The  many  years  of  his  residence  in  this 
locality  have  brought  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  associated  with 
him  and  he  is  widely  known  as  a practical  farmer  and  a progressive  citizen. 


J.  E.  LING. 

For  fourteen  years  J.  E.  Ling  has  lived  upon  his  present  farm  and  by  his 
practical  and  well  directed  efforts  has  made  it  one  of  the  attractive  and  productive 
properties  in  his  locality.  The  farm  lies  in  Sampson  township,  eight  miles  north 
of  Bloomer  and  comprises  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  choice  land.  Mr. 
Ling  was  born  in  Burnett  county,  in  1876,  and  is  a son  of  Andrew  and  Carolina 
(Bergdahl)  Ling,  the  former  a native  of  Sweden  who  came  to  the  United 
States  in  1869.  He  located  immediately  in  Burnett  county,  this  state,  where  he 
followed  farming.  His  death  occurred  in  July,  1909,  when  he  was  sixty-five 
years  of  age.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  five  children : C.  A.,  E.  A., 
Martin,  J.  E.  and  Philip  B. 

J.  E.  Ling  acquired  his  education  in  public  schools  in  Burnett  county  and  in 
Iowa  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  followed  farming  in  the  latter  state  for  a 


294 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


number  of  years.  Eventually  he  returned  to  Wisconsin  and  settled  in  Chippewa 
county  where  he  has  since  resided.  Fourteen  years  ago  he  purchased  his  present 
farm  and  has  steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development 
since  that  time,  clearing  the  property  and  erecting  upon  it  substantial  buildings. 
Mr.  Ling  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  his  well  directed  labors 
have  been  rewarded  by  a gratifying  measure  of  success. 

Mr.  Ling  is  a member  of  the  Order  of  Beavers  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  For  two  years  he  served  as  chairman  of  his  township,  for  one 
year  as  assessor,  two  years  as  town  treasurer,  and  he  is  now  rendering  excellent 
service  as  township  clerk.  In  whatever  relation  of  life  he  is  found,  he  is  always 
capable,  reliable  and  energetic  and  he  holds  the  respect  and  confidence  of  all  who 
are  in  any  way  associated  with  him. 


CHARLES  A.  HENDRICKSON. 

Charles  A.  Hendrickson,  whose  demise  occurred  in  Holcombe  township  on 
the  15th  of  May,  1907,  was  for  a number  of  years  actively  and  successfully 
identified  with  agricultural  interests  in  Chippewa  county,  owning  and  operating 
a farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  20,  township  31,  range  6. 
He  was  born  in  Norway  on  the  16th  of  April,  1864,  and  emigrated  to  the  United 
States  in  early  manhood.  About  thirty  years  ago  he  purchased  one  hundred 
and  twenty  acres  of  land  in  Holcombe  township,  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and 
throughout  the  remainder  of  his  life  devoted  his  attention  to  its  cultivation  and 
improvement,  erecting  thereon  a commodious  and  substantial  residence  and  barn. 
He  won  a gratifying  measure  of  prosperity  in  his  undertakings  as  an  agricul- 
turist, and  in  his  passing  the  community  lost  one  of  its  substantial  and  re- 
spected citizens.  His  widow  and  children  still  reside  upon  and  operate  the 
home  farm. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Hendrickson  chose 
Miss  Jennie  Sather,  who  is  a native  of  the  United  States  and  by  whom  he  had 
five  children,  as  follows:  Jessie,  the  wife  of  Dr.  E.  R.  Benson,  of  Superior, 
Wisconsin;  Allen  C.,  Carrol  F.,  Henry  and  Alice,  all  at  home.  Mrs.  Hendrick- 
son is  well  and  favorably  known  throughout  the  community,  the  circle  of  her 
friends  being  almost  coextensive  with  the  circle  of  her  acquaintances. 


JOHN  J.  NICHOLSON. 

John  J.  Nicholson,  proprietor  of  the  Stanley  House,  one  of  the  first  road- 
houses of  Chippewa  county,  was  born  in  Canada,  March  6,  1861.  He  is  a son 
of  John  and  Sarah  (Watson)  Nicholson,  the  former  born  in  1810  and  the  lat- 
ter in  Ireland  in  1819.  The  father  engaged  in  farming  during  all  his  active 
life,  dying  in  1881.  His  wife  survived  him  several  years,  her  death  occurring 
in  1889.  They  became  the  parents  of  six  children,  Edward,  George,  John  J.. 
Louisa,  Henry  and  one  who  died  in  infancy. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


295 


John  J.  Nicholson  attended  school  a few  weeks  every  winter  until  he  was 
twelve  years  of  age  and  then  laid  aside  his  books,  working  on  farms  and  on  the 
river,  driving  logs  until  1896.  In  that  year  he  moved  to  Stanley  and  purchased 
the  Stanley  Hotel,  of  which  he  has  since  been  the  proprietor.  The  present  build- 
ing replaced  the  original  edifice  which  was  destroyed  by  fire  several  years  ago 
and  the  hotel  is  one  of  the  first  roadhouses  in  Chippewa  county,  situated  on  the 
main  road  running  north  and  south.  Under  Mr.  Nicholson’s  able  management 
its  business  has  increased  greatly  and  it  has  an  enviable  reputation  as  a con- 
venient, comfortable  and  thoroughly  equipped  hostelry. 

Mr.  Nicholson  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  affiliated  with  the  Order  of  Owls  and  is  a stock- 
holder in  the  Inter-County  Fair  Association  of  Stanley.  An  expert  judge  and 
a keen  lover  of  horses,  he  has  taken  a great  delight  in  acquiring  a number  of 
valuable  animals  and  he  spends  a great  deal  of  time  in  his  stables.  He  is  a 
representative,  progressive  and  public-spirited  citizen  and  his  success  in  busi- 
ness is  well  deserved  as  it  is  largely  the  result  of  his  energy,  industry  and  enter- 
prise. 


LOUIS  I.  ROE. 

Louis  I.  Roe,  a representative  and  progressive  citizen  of  Stanley,  has  made  his 
home  in  the  city  since  1892,  and  during  the  intervening  years  has  left  the  impress 
of  his  ability  and  personality  upon  business  and  political  development.  He  is 
well  known  in  mercantile  circles  as  president  of  the  L.  I.  Roe  Company,  general 
merchants  and  he  has  other  important  and  profitable  connections.  He  was  born 
in  Norway,  August  8,  i860,  and  is  a son  of  Ingbregt  and  Bridt  (Bronstad)  Roe, 
also  natives  of  that  country,  the  father  born  in  1807  and  the  mother  in  1827  in 
Surendalen  near  Trondhjem.  Both  have  passed  away,  the  father  dying  in  1883 
and  the  mother  in  1902.  Ingbregt  Roe  was  twice  married,  his  first  wife  being  Miss 
Maret  Fiske,  who  died  in  1854.  To  this  union  were  born  six  children:  Ole, 

John;  Maret;  Ingbrigt  and  two  who  died  in  infancy.  By  his  second  wife, 
Ingbregt  Roe  had  the  following  children:  Finer ; Louis  I.,  of  this  review;  Ole; 
Maret;  and  two  who  died  in  infancy. 

Louis  I.  Roe  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway,  pursuing 
his  studies  during  the  winter  months  and  working  as  a cattle  herder  during  the 
summers.  Eventually  he  removed  to  the  city  of  Christiansund  where  he  worked 
in  a general  store  for  four  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  emigrated  to  Amer- 
ica and  in  1880  settled  in  the  vicinity  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  he  worked 
upon  a farm  for  one  summer.  In  the  spring  of  1881  he  became  connected  with 
the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  as  a clerk  in  their  store  at  Porters  Mills,  and 
he  retained  this  connection  for  thirteen  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved 
to  Stanley,  where  for  almost  twenty-two  years  he  acted  as  manager  of  a large 
store.  On  the  first  of  January,  1913,  he  resigned  this  position  and  organized  the 
L.  I.  Roe  Company,  with  a capital  stock  of  thirty  thousand  dollars,  and  with  the 
following  officers:  L.  I.  Roe,  president ; Ole  Roe,  vice  president ; and  Edwin  Roe, 
secretary  and  treasurer.  The  company  own  a large  general  store  and  also  a two 


296 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


hundred  and  forty  acre  farm  near  Stanley  on  sections  23  and  24,  township  29, 
range  5 west. 

Much  of  the  credit  for  the  rapid  development  of  the  business  is  due  to  the 
energy  and  ability  of  Louis  Roe,  who  has  devoted  a great  deal  of  time  to  the 
upbuilding  of  the  concern,  and  who  has  directed  its  policy  along  progressive  and 
modern  lines.  He  is  now  a stockholder  and  a director  of  the  Citizens  State  Bank 
of  Stanley.  He  is  also  vice  president  and  stockholder  of  the  Junction  City  State 
Bank  at  Junction  City,  and  president  of  the  Cameron  Bank  of  Cameron,  and 
stockholder  and  director  of  the  Ingram  State  Bank  at  Ingram,  and  his  influence  is 
felt  as  a progressive  force  in  the  financial  development  of  this  section  of  the  state. 

O11  the  31st  of  December,  1883,  Mr.  Roe  married  Miss  Ellen  Haagensen,  a 
daughter  of  Haagen  Harrang  and  Berret  Krangnes,  the  former  a store 
owner  and  farmer  in  Norway.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Roe  have  become  the  parents 
of  eleven  children:  Imbert,  who  is  cashier  of  the  Citizens  State  Bank  at  Stanley, 
married  Miss  Caroline  Johnson  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children. 
Herman  is  a printer  on  a weekly  newspaper  at  Northfield,  Minnesota.  He  and  his 
wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Anna  Kirkeley,  are  the  parents  of  one 
child.  Bertha  M.  married  Dr.  H.  C.  Erickson  of  Stanley.  The  other  children 
born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Roe  are:  Edwin  B.,  Ludwig  I.,  Norman  O.,  Bernhard  O., 
Edna  L.,  Signe,  Borghild,  and  Sigfrid  A. 

Mr.  Roe  is  trustee  of  the  National  United  Lutheran  church  of  America  and 
a member  of  the  United  Lutheran  church  of  Stanley.  He  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  active  in  public  affairs,  serving  as  president  of  the  Stanley 
Progressive  League  and  of  the  Luther  Plospital  at  Eau  Claire.  Although  he  has 
attained  prominence  and  success  in  business,  his  interests  have  extended  to  many 
fields,  notably  that  of  public  life.  From  1900  to  1904,  and  from  1908  to  1910, 
he  served  as  mayor  of  Stanley  and  during  his  administration  the  city  hall, 
library  and  waterworks  were  erected;  a park  was  laid  out,  a cemetery  com- 
pleted and  a sewer  system  installed. 

Mr.  Roe  was  a member  of  the  school  board  from  1892  to  1898,  and  has  been 
for  several  terms  a member  of  the  county  board  of  supervisors.  His  influence 
is  always  on  the  side  of  reform  and  advancement,  and  throughout  the  eastern 
part  of  Chippewa  county  he  is  held  in  the  high  esteem  which  his  ability  and  energy 
so  richly  deserve. 


THOMAS  KING. 

Thomas  King,  who  passed  away  on  the  21st  of  July.  1008,  was  one  of  the 
early  settlers  and  prosperous  agriculturists  of  Chippewa  county,  carrying  on  farm- 
ing on  section  32,  township  32,  range  7.  He  was  born  on  May  7,  1835,  in  Canada, 
and  spent  his  boyhood  near  Detroit,  Michigan.  In  company  with  his  brother 
Archibald  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  here  working  as  a farm  hand 
and  also  in  the  lumber  woods.  About  1868  they  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  which  had  been  homesteaded  by  the  previous  owner  but  was  only 
slightly  imoroved.  Subsenuentlv  they  sold  out  to  Thomas  Kelly  and  then  went 
west,  but  Thomas  King  soon  afterward  returned  to  Chippewa  county  and  repur- 


MR.  AND  MRS.  THOMAS  KING 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


299 


chased  the  farm  from  Mr.  Kelly,  spending  the  remainder  of  his  life  within  its 
boundaries.  He  made  extensive  improvements  on  his  farm,  cleared  about  one 
hundred  acres  thereof  and  erected  a substantial  frame  residence — the  third  house 
which  stood  on  the  property.  In  the  conduct  of  his  agricultural  interests  he  won 
a well  merited  measure  of  prosperity,  following  modern  and  effective  methods 
of  farming.  His  widow  still  resides  on  the  farm  with  her  son  William,  who  ope- 
rates the  place,  carrying  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  with  excellent  success. 
The  family  own  about  two  hundred  and  seventy-one  acres  of  land  and  reside  in 
an  attractive  and  well  appointed  home. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  King  chose  Miss 
Eliza  Ann  Kelly,  a native  of  Canada  and  a daughter  of  James  and  Anna 
Jane  (Murray)  Kelly,  who  were  also  natives  of  the  Dominion.  Mrs.  Anna 
Jane  (Murray)  Kelly  died  August  9,  1861,  and  on  January  7,  1862,  Mr.  Kelly 
married  Miss  Ann  Foster.  The  Kelly  family  came  from  the  Dominion  to  Chip- 
pewa county  in  1865,  when  Eliza  Ann  Kelly  was  ten  years  of  age.  The  father  of 
Mrs.  King,  Mr.  James  Kelly,  for  a long  time  a resident  of  Chippewa  county,  has 
passed  away,  his  death  occurring  July  18,  1894.  Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  King  were 
born  six  children,  as  follows : John  Edward,  who  makes  his  home  at  Estella,  this 
county;  James,  who  died  at  the  age  of  five  years;  Mary,  the  wife  of  Richard 
Behnke,  of  Oshkosh,  Wisconsin ; Ethel,  who  is  a trained  nurse  at  Oshkosh,  Wis- 
consin ; William,  at  home ; and  Maud,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  Walter 
Gilbert,  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin. 

In  politics  Mr.  King  was  a stanch  republican,  loyally  supporting  the  men  and 
measures  of  that  party  at  the  polls.  He  was  for  several  years  clerk  of  the  school 
board  and  for  a long  time  served  as  township  treasurer.  In  religious  faith  he 
was  a Congregationalist  and  helped  to  organize  the  church  of  that  denomination 
at  Keystone,  three  miles  south  of  his  farm.  Not  only  was  he  one  of  the  organ- 
izers of  the  institution  but  continued  his  interest  in  its  welfare,  serving  as  trustee 
and  deacon.  He  ever  enjoyed  in  the  fullest  degree  the  respect  and  confidence  of 
his  fellowmen  and  his  worth  as  a man  and  citizen  was  widely  acknowledged.  His 
widow  has  been  a resident  of  this  county  for  almost  a half  century  and  is  wideb- 
and favorably  known  here. 


JOHN  E.  PRINCE. 

Through  well  directed  business  activity  and  enterprise  John  E.  Prince  has 
gained  recognition  as  one  of  the  prosperous  farmers  and  extensive  landowners 
of  Chippewa  county.  He  owns  a highly  improved  tract  of  land  in  Auburn  town- 
ship, comprising  three  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  and  also  four  hundred  acres  at 
Cornell  lake.  His  home  farm  he  has  developed  and  improved  for  a number  of 
years  and  his  labors  have  not  only  contributed  to  his  own  prosperity  but  have 
proven  effective  forces  in  advancing  the  general  welfare.  He  was  born  in  this 
county,  on  the  old  Prince  homestead,  and  is  a son  of  A.  P.  Prince,  a pioneer  in 
this  part  of  Wisconsin.  The  father  was  born  in  Ontario,  Canada,  and  came  to 
the  United  States  as  a young  man,  settling  in  Chippewa  Falls  in  early  times. 

voi.  n — 1 0 


300 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OE  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


lie  married  Miss  Sarah  Corrigan,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  ten  children, 
two  of  whom  have  passed  away. 

John  E.  Prince  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  working 
upon  the  homestead  until  he  was  thirty-three  years  of  age.  He  then  purchased 
three  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  Auburn  township,  ten  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer, 
and  here  he  has  since  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying,  his  well  directed 
labors  being  rewarded  by  a substantial  degree  of  success.  He  owns  also  four 
hundred  acres  at  Cornell  lake  and  is  accounted  one  of  the  large  landowners  in 
this  locality. 

Mr.  Prince  married  Miss  Mary  Eder,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  four 
children,  Roy,  Vernon,  Leon  and  Gilbert.  Mr.  Prince  is  a member  of  the  Roman 
Catholic  church  and  is  independent  in  his  political  views.  He  is  interested  in 
the  growth  and  welfare  of  his  community  and  as  the  years  have  gone  by  has  won 
for  himself  a creditable  position  as  a valued  citizen  and  business  man. 


RICHARD  NESS. 

Richard  Ness  has  been  connected  with  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company 
since  1881,  and  since  that  time  has  risen  through  successive  stages  of  progress 
and  advancement  to  the  responsible  position  of  shipping  clerk.  He  also  owns 
a large  grocery  store  in  the  city  and  has  made  this  enterprise  one  of  the  important 
mercantile  concerns  in  Stanley.  He  was  born  in  Norway,  January  7,  1867,  and  is 
a son  of  Nels  and  Johanna  (Stevenson)  Rasmusen,  also  natives  of  that  country, 
the  former  born  in  1834  and  the  latter  in  1843.  The  father  was  a farmer  by 
occupation,  following  this  line  of  work  until  his  death  in  1912.  His  wife  has  also 
passed  away,  her  death  having  occurred  in  1907.  To  their  union  were  born  eleven 
children:  Anna,  deceased;  Richard;  Alfred,  Julius,  Olf  M.,  and  Augusta,  all  of 
whom  have  passed  away;  Julia,  Augusta,  the  second  of  the  name;  Olf  and  Carl, 
deceased ; and  Evelyn. 

Richard  Ness  attended  public  school  in  Norway  until  he  was  fourteen  years 
of  age,  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  worked  upon  his  father’s  farm  until  he 
was  twenty.  In  1887  he  emigrated  to  America  and  settled  in  Eau  Claire,  whence 
he  went  to  Porters  Mills,  where  he  entered  the  employ  of  the  Northwestern  Lumber 
Company  as  a laborer.  Since  that  time  his  energy  and  ability  have  gained  him 
many  promotions,  and  in  1893  he  was  advanced  to  the  position  of  shipping 
clerk,  a capacity  in  which  he  has  since  discharged  his  duties  creditably  and  ably. 
He  is  one  of  the  best  known  employes  of  the  corporation  and  enjoys  the  esteem 
and  respect  of  his  superiors  and  associates.  In  addition  to  his  connection  with 
the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company,  Mr.  Ness  is  also  the  proprietor  of  a grocery 
and  confectionery  store  on  east  First  street.  He  has  a stock  valued  at  fifteen 
hundred  dollars  and  controls  an  important  and  growing  patronage. 

In  1894  Mr.  Ness  made  a journey  to  Norway,  and  on  the  24th  of  July  of  that 
year  married  Miss  Karen  Mosted,  a daughter  of  Hans  and  Lina  (Olsen)  Mosted, 
the  former  a manufacturer  of  wooden  ware  and  also  a cleaner  and  dyer.  Mr. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


301 


and  Mrs.  Ness  are  the  parents  of  eight  children  : Jennie  L.,  Hannah  M.,  Rudolph, 
Sophia,  Martha,  George,  Rorgheld,  and  Esther  C. 

Mr.  Ness  is  a member  of  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  the  I.  S.  W.  A.  He  gives 
his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  he  did  able  work  for  six  years 
as  a member  of  the  school  board.  Prosperous  in  his  business  connections,  he 
proves  what  may  be  accomplished  by  determined  and  persistent  labor.  Starting 
without  capital,  he  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward,  improving  every  oppor- 
tunity, and  utilizing  every  chance  that  would  lead  to  honorable  advancement. 


P.  B.  LING. 

P.  B.  Ling,  the  efficient  and  capable  supervisor  of  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  School 
at  Delavan,  was  born  in  Burnett  county  in  1877,  a son  of  Andrew  and  Carolina 
(Bergdahl)  Ling.  The  father  was  a native  of  Sweden  and  came  to  the  United 
States  in  1869,  locating  immediately  in  Burnett  county,  this  state,  where  he  en- 
gaged in  agricultural  pursuits.  He  died  in  July,  1909,  when  he  wras  sixty-five 
years  of  age.  In  his  family  were  five  children : C.  A.,  E.  A.,  Martin,  J.  E.,  and 
P.  B.,  of  this  review.  * 

In  the  acquirement  of  an  education  Mr.  Ling  attended  public  school,  first  in 
Burnett  county  and  later  in  Iowa.  In  the  latter  state  he  afterwards  turned  his 
attention  to  farming,  continuing  to  develop  his  holdings  there  until  he  returned  to 
Wisconsin.  He  settled  in  Chippewa  county  where  he  purchased  one  hundred 
and  twenty  acres  of  farming  land  and  property  in  North  Auburn.  The  farm 
is  now  being  operated  by  his  brothers  and  the  town  property  is  rented,  for  seven 
years  ago  Mr.  Ling  was  appointed  supervisor  of  the  Deaf  and  Dumb  School 
at  Delavan  and  has  since  given  all  of  his  attention  to  the  conscientious  discharge 
of  his  responsible  duties. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Ling  is  identified  with  the  Order  of  Beavers  and  the  Knights 
of  Pythias  and  he  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  a 
representative  and  progressive  citizen  and  his  work  in  his  present  official  capacity 
reflects  credit  upon  both  his  energy  and  his  public  spirit. 


PAULUS  PETERSON. 

Among  the  prominent  business  men  of  Stanley  is  numbered  Paulus  Peterson, 
closely  connected  with  important  mercantile  interests  as  a member  of  the  Peterson 
& Aasgaard  Company,  general  merchants.  He  was  born  in  Norway,  January 
13,  1877,  and  is  a son  of  Peter  and  Elizabeth  (Ivorson)  Christenson,  also  natives 
of  that  country,  the  former  born  in  1833  and  the  latter  in  1830.  The  father  was 
a fireman  and  policeman  for  many  years  in  his  native  country  and  died  there  in 
1897.  His  wife  survived  him  some  years,  her  death  occurring  in  1905. 

Paulus  Peterson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway  and 
at  the  age  of  fifteen  laid  aside  his  books,  securing  a position  as  clerk  in  a store. 


302 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


After  one  year  he  emigrated  to  America  and  in  1892  settled  in  Pennsylvania, 
where  he  remained  for  four  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Stanley 
and  after  spending  three  years  in  the  tannery  became  a clerk  in  a general  store 
there.  This  position  he  held  for  nine  years  and  a half  and  at  the  end  of  that  time 
formed  a partnership  with  Carsten  Olson  in  the  conduct  of  an  independent  enter- 
prise. After  the  death  of  Mr.  Olson,  Mr.  Peterson  took  as  a partner  Iv.  Aasgaard 
and  the  business  is  now  operated  under  the  name  of  Peterson  & Aasgaard.  The 
stock  is  valued  at  eight  thousand  dollars  and  the  enterprise  is  a profitable  and 
well  managed  one,  reflecting  great  credit  upon  the  energy  and  ability  of  the  man 
who  founded  it  and  built  it  up. 

In  Stanley,  on  the  21st  of  May,  1898,  Mr.  Peterson  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Julia  Ness,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Nels  Rasmusen  Ness,  the  former  a 
farmer  who  died  in  Norway.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peterson  have  three  children,  Peter 
N.,  Bjarne  J.,  and  Hjalmar  O.  Mr.  Peterson  is  a trustee  of  the  United  Lutheran 
church  and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  one  of  the  most  popular 
merchants  of  Stanley  and  is  well  known  as  a reliable,  trustworthy  and  enterprising 
business  man. 


FRED  ERNATINGER. 

Farming  claims  the  time  and  attention  of  Fred  Ernatinger,  who  occupies  a 
place  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  eight  miles  southeast  of  Bloomer.  He 
is  one  of  the  pioneers  of  the  county,  having  been  born  here  in  1847.  Two-thirds 
of  a century  have  since  elapsed,  in  which  time  marvelous  changes  have  occurred 
as  the  indications  of  pioneer  life  have  been  replaced  by  the  evidences  of  a modern 
and  progressive  civilization.  His  father,  James  Ernatinger,  was  a native  of 
Canada  and  on  crossing  the  border  into  the  United  States  made  his  way  to  Wis- 
consin, locating  near  Jim  Falls,  where  he  engaged  in  Indian  trading  and  in 
logging.  He  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  of  the  county  and  was  closely  identified 
with  its  early  development  as  well  as  later  progress.  He  continued  to  engage 
in  logging  until  his  death,  which  occurred  when  he  had  reached  an  advanced  age. 
It  was  after  coming  to  Chippewa  county  that  he  married  a Miss  Cadott,  who  be- 
longed to  the  family  for  whom  the  town  of  Cadott  was  named.  They,  too,  were 
pioneer  residents  of  the  county. 

Fred  Ernatinger  was  the  youngest  of  a large  family  and,  like  his  brothers 
and  sisters,  he  was  a pupil  in  the  county  schools.  The  experiences  of  his  youth 
were  those  which  usually  fall  to  the  farm  lad  who  is  reared  upon  the  frontier.  He 
can  remember  a period  when  the  log  cabin  was  no  uncommon  sight  in  the  county, 
when  there  were  great  stretches  of  timber  land  from  which  the  trees  had  not  yet 
been  cut  and  when  considerable  wild  game  was  to  be  found  in  the  forests.  When 
his  school  days  were  over  he  sought  employment  in  the  neighborhood  and  worked 
at  various  places,  but  after  the  death  of  his  brother  he  came  to  the  farm  upon 
which  he  now  lives  to  take  care  of  his  mother  and  has  since  made  his  home 
on  that  place.  He  had  three  brothers  in  the  army  and  one  half-brother,  and  the 
family  has  always  been  noted  for  loyalty  and  public  spirit.  Fred  Ernatinger  is 
now  the  oldest  settler  in  his  section  of  the  county.  His  mother  located  upon  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


303 


farm  in  1861,  at  which  time  the  place  was  all  covered  with  brush.  Mr.  Erna- 
tinger  has  cleared  the  entire  tract  himself  and  has  put  up  all  of  the  buildings 
upon  the  place.  His  has  been  a useful,  active  and  busy  life  in  which  he  has 
accomplished  a substantial  measure  of  success.  He  carries  on  general  farming, 
cultivating  the  crops  best  adapted  to  soil  and  climate,  and  his  energy,  perseverance 
and  capable  management  have  constituted  the  basis  upon  which  he  has  builded 
his  prosperity. 

Mr.  Ernatinger  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Rose,  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  six  children:  Isaac,  William,  Charles,  iVnnie,  James  and  Sophie. 

Since  age  conferred  upon  him  the  right  of  franchise  Mr.  Ernatinger  has  voted 
with  the  republican  party  and  has  firm  belief  in  the  principles  that  constitute 
its  platform.  He  has,  however,  never  sought  office,  preferring  always  to  con- 
centrate his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs.  He  is  one  of  the  well  known  citi- 
zens of  the  county  and  no  history  of  pioneer  times  would  be  complete  without 
mention  of  him. 


BERNHARD  PETERSON. 

Bernhard  Peterson  who  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  in  Auburn 
township,  and  who  is  numbered  among  the  substantial  agriculturists  of  his  locality 
was  born  in  Norway  in  t868.  He  is  a son  of  Andrew  who  married  Isabel  Ander- 
son, the  former  a native  of  Sweden  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1883  and 
settled  in  Chippewa  county  where  he  died  in  1896.  He  and  his  wife  became  the 
parents  of  five  children. 

Bernhard  Peterson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
country  and  accompanied  his  parents  to  America  in  1883.  Upon  his  arrival  in 
Chippewa  county  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  working  in  the  employ  of 
others  until  he  purchased  his  present  property.  He  owns  one  hundred  and  thirty- 
eight  acres  lying  ten  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer  in  Auburn  township,  and  here 
engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying,  meeting  with  that  success  which  always 
follows  determined  and  well  directed  labor. 

Mr.  Peterson  married  Miss  Tillie  Sampson  and  they  became  the  parents  of 
ten  children : Alfred,  Severine,  Isabel,  Casper,  Oliver,  Einar,  Hjalmar,  Magnus; 
and  Bertha  M.  and  Theodore,  who  have  passed  away.  Mr.  Peterson  is  a devout 
member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his  political  allegiance  to 
the  republican  party.  He  is  a man  of  many  sterling  traits  of  character,  capable 
in  business,  progressive  in  citizenship  and  at  all  times  trustworthy  and  reliable. 


J.  G.  PRUEHER. 

J.  G.  Prueher  is  the  only  attorney  residing  in  Bloomer  and  Chippewa  county 
numbers  him  among  her  native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  at  Tilden,  April 
16,  1879.  His  father,  Lorenz  Prueher,  was  a native  of  Austria,  in  which  coun- 
try he  remained  through  the  period  of  boyhood  and  youth,  coming  to  America 


304 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


in  early  manhood.  He  made  his  way  to  Indiana,  where  he  remained  for  three 
years  and  then  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  where  he  turned  his  atten- 
tion to  farming.  Year  by  year  he  carefully  cultivated  his  fields  and  was  well 
known  as  a representative  agriculturist  of  the  community.  He  died  in  this 
county  at  the  age  of  seventy-seven  years  and  is  still  survived  by  his  wife,  who 
in  her  maidenhood  was  Maria  Zwiefelhofer.  They  were  the  parents  of  seven 
children. 

J.  G.  Prueher  spent'  the  days  of  his  boyhood  and  youth  under  the  parental 
roof  and  after  attending  the  schools  of  Bloomer  continued  his  education  in  the 
Minnesota  University.  He  entered  the  law  department  and  in  due  course  of 
time  was  graduated  therefrom  in  June,  1905.  He  then  returned  to  Bloomer, 
opened  an  office  and  has  since  been  in  continuous  practice  here.  He  now  is  and 
for  about  six  years  has  been  village  attorney  of  Bloomer,  is  secretary  and  a 
director  of  the  Bloomer  Improvement  Club,  and  is  a director  of  the  Bloomer 
Machine  Works  and  one  of  the  stockholders  of  the  telephone  company  of 
Bloomer  and  also  of  the  Peoples  State  Bank  and  is  thus  closely  associated  with 
business  as  well  as  professional  circles  of  the  city. 

Mr.  Prueher  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Grace  H.  Brooks,  of  Chip- 
pewa, and  unto  them  has  been  born  a son,  Bertram  J.,  now  a year  old.  Mr. 
Prueher  is  interested  in  the  political  situation  and  gives  his  support  to  the  demo- 
cratic party,  and  is  at  present  chairman  of  the  democratic  county  committee, 
strongly  indorsing  its  principles  and  its  policy.  He  belongs  to  the  Catholic 
church  and  he  is  president  of  the  school  board  of  Bloomer,  in  which  capacity 
he  is  serving  for  the  second  year.  His  record  in  all  connections  has  been  credit- 
able and  his  enterprising  spirit  makes  him  a valued  business  man  and  citizen  of 
Bloomer. 


REED  SPENCER  MUNROE. 

Reed  Spencer  Munroe  is  a successful  farmer,  owning  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  on  section  29,  Sigel  township.  He  is  a native  son  of  Wisconsin, 
born  in  Waushara  county,  November  6,  1867.  His  father,  William  S.  Munroe, 
was  born  in  the  town  of  Bolton,  Chittenden  county,  Vermont,  July  21,  1839. 
In  1846  he  was  brought  west  by  his  parents  who  located  in  Wisconsin,  Sheboy- 
gan county.  William  S.  Munroe  began  learning  the  printer’s  trade  in  the  Free 
Press  office  in  Sheboygan  Falls  and  after  working  there  a year  went  to  the  State 
Journal  office  at  Madison  where  he  remained  until  1861  when  he  removed  to 
Wautoma  to  take  an  interest  in  the  Waushara  Argus.  He  enlisted  in  the  Union 
army  in  the  fall  of  1861  as  a private,  serving  his  country  through  the  war  and 
earning  numerous  promotions  by  his  courage  and  loyalty  manifested  in  the  hard 
fought  battles  of  the  campaign  of  the  western  army  and  in  the  march  to  the  sea. 
He  was  honorably  discharged  at  the  close  of  the  conflict  as  captain  of  Company 
I,  Sixteenth  Regiment.  Some  years  later  he  engaged  in  farming  and  also  oper- 
ated a sawmill  at  Cadott.  His  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Clara  C. 
Clark,  was  a native  of  Beloit,  Wisconsin,  born  in  1840.  Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Munroe  were  born  five  children:  Allen  C. ; Reed  S. ; Jennie,  who  is  deceased: 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


305 


William  R. ; and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  Both  the  parents  are  now  deceased, 
the  father  passing  away  in  1899,  while  the  mother  preceded  him  in  death  seven 
years,  her  demise  occurring  in  1892. 

Reed  S.  Munroe  was  reared  under  the  paternal  roof  and  attended  the  public 
schools  of  Wautoma,  Wisconsin,  to  the  age  of  twelve  years.  The  family  home 
having  been  established  in  Cadott  about  that  time,  the  son  completed  his  edu- 
cation in  the  high  school  of  that  place.  He  then  entered  his  father’s  sawmill, 
and  was  thus  engaged  until  he  had  reached  the  age  of  twenty-five  years.  In  the 
meantime  he  had  purchased  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land  at  various 
times  and  cleared  and  developed  the  same.  When  he  left  his  father’s  sawmill 
he  then  went  to  live  on  his  farm  and  has  since  added  forty  acres,  so  that  his 
acreage  now  comprises  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  located  on  section  29,  Sigel 
township.  He  breeds  Holstein  cattle  to  some  extent,  and  also  engages  in  rais- 
ing wheat,  hay,  corn,  oats  and  potatoes,  his  principal  crop  being  hay.  He  also 
raises  a few ’hogs  and  likewise  engages  in  dairying.  He  leads  a busy  life  on  the 
farm  and  is  meeting  with  deserved  success  in  all  his  various  undertakings. 

At  Cadott,  on  the  20th  of  September,  1888,  Mr.  Munroe  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Jessie  Russell,  a daughter  of  Louis  A.  and  Julia  M.  (Ogden) 
Russell,  the  former  a drayman  of  Cadott.  Two  sons  and  one  daughter  have 
been  born  unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Munroe,  Spencer  R.,  Caleb  L.  and  Clarissa.  The 
family  attend  the  Methodist  church. 

Mr.  Munroe  is  a republican  in  his  political  affiliations  and  for  eight  years 
served  as  trustee  of  the  village  of  Cadott.  He  is  a member  of  the  Sons  of 
Veterans.  Having  always  led  a busy  and  industrious  life,  he  has  gradually 
worked  his  way  upward  until  today  he  is  classed  among  the  substantial  farmers 
and  representative  citizens  of  Chippewa  county. 


FRED  C.  PUTSCH. 

Fred  C.  Pitsch,  prominently  connected  with  commercial  interests  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls  as  a member  of  the  firm  of  Fred  Pitsch  & Company,  shoe  merchants, 
was  born  at  Grand  Rapids,  Wisconsin,  June  16,  1879,  and  is  a son  of  Charles 
and  Mary  (Billmyer)  Pitsch,  both  of  German  extraction. 

Fred  C.  Pitsch  began  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  city 
and  when  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he 
studied  in  the  public  schools  and  in  St.  Charles  Roman  Catholic  school.  At 
the  age  of  sixteen  he  laid  aside  his  books  and  began  his  independent  career  as 
clerk  in  the  employ  of  Weyenberg  Brothers,  retail  dealers  in  shoes,  with  whom 
he  remained  until  1898,  gaining  during  that  time  valuable  practical  experience 
in  a line  of  work  to  which  he  has  devoted  his  attention  during  his  entire  active 
life.  When  he  resigned  his  position  with  Weyenberg  Brothers  he  formed  a 
partnership  with  Henry  Kuntz  and  they  established  themselves  in  the  retail  shoe 
business  under  the  name  of  Fred  Pitsch  & Company.  This  undertaking  has 
proved  very  successful  and  the  partners  control  today  a growing  patronage, 
their  concern  being  ranked  with  the  largest  of  its  kind  in  the  city. 


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PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  Stevens  Point,  Wisconsin,  August  6,  1912,  Mr.  Pitsch  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Georgia  Barrows,  a daughter  of  G.  L.  and  Louise  Barrows,  the 
former  a conductor  on  the  Soo  line,  with  headquarters  at  Stevens  Point.  Mrs. 
Pitsch’s  mother  passed  away  in  1909  and  is  buried  in  that  city.  Mrs.  Pitsch 
was  previous  to  her  marriage  a teacher  in  the  high  school  there. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Pitsch  is  connected  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus,  the 
Catholic  Order  of  Foresters  and  the  Benevolent  Protective  Order  of  Elks.  He 
is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  rendered  the  city  excellent  service 
as  a member  of  the  board  of  alderman.  In  Chippewa  Falls  he  is  known  as  a 
farsighted,  able  and  resourceful  business  man  and  has  made  steady  and  well 
deserved  progress  since  the  beginning  of  his  active  career. 


FRANK  W.  STARR,  M.  D. 

For  nearly  ten  years  Dr.  Frank  W.  Starr  has  practiced  medicine  in  Stanley, 
Chippewa  county,  and  in  that  time  has  built  up  a substantial  practice  which  is 
given  him  in  recognition  of  his  natural  ability,  his  experience  and  also  to  the 
interest  which  he  takes  in  each  particular  case  and  which  helps  toward  establishing 
personal  and  pleasant  relations  between  patient  and  doctor.  Moreover,  Dr.  Starr 
has  held  important  official  positions  and  as  county  physician  has  done  much 
toward  stamping  out  disease  in  this  section  of  the  state  and  in  improving  general 
health  conditions.  Dr.  Starr  was  born  in  Grand  Rapids,  Wisconsin,  May  10, 
1866,  a son  of  James  Starr,  a native  of  Ireland,  born  in  1825.  When  fifteen 
years  of  age  the  father  removed  to  Quebec,  Canada,  and  at  the  age  of  thirty-five 
came  to  Wisconsin.  He  worked  along  various  lines  largely  in  the  employ  of 
others  and  passed  away  in  1869,  at  the  comparatively  early  age  of  forty-four  years. 
The  mother,  who  before  her  marriage  was  Miss  Bridget  Miskell,  was  born  in 
Ireland  in  1833  and  her  death  occurred  in  1884.  In  their  family  were  nine  chil- 
dren : John,  Patrick,  Mary,  Ellen,  Lizzie,  James,  Frank,  Margaret  and  Emma. 

Frank  W.  Starr  attended  the  Grand  Rapids  high  school,  from  which  he  grad- 
uated in  1885,  and  for  eight  years  thereafter  taught  school  in  Wood  county.  He 
then  attended  the  Oshkosh  normal  school,  from  which  he  graduated  in  1895,  after 
which  he  was  engaged  for  four  years  as  a teacher  in  the  high  school.  Desiring, 
however,  to  make  the  medical  profession  his  life  work,  he  then  attended  the 
Northwestern  Medical  College  of  Chicago,  receiving  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in 
1903.  In  that  year  he  began  practicing  and  in  1904  came  to  Stanley,  Wiscon- 
sin, where  he  has  ever  since  been  located.  Earnest,  capable  and  conscientious 
in  the  discharge  of  his  duties,  he  is  careful  in  diagnosis  but  after  reaching  a 
decision  is  quick  to  act.  He  has  many  notable  and  critical  cases  to  his  credit 
and  as  the  years  have  passed  has  established  a large  practice,  winning  the  con- 
fidence and  esteem  of  his  patients  and  the  general  public.  He  has  the  rare 
quality  of  instilling  into  those  who  are  ill  that  confidence  in  a cure  which  is 
so  necessary  in  bringing  a difficult  case  to  a successful  issue.  Dr.  Starr  has  made 
many  friends  since  locating  in  Stanley,  not  only  among  his  patients  but  also 
among  the  general  public,  all  of  whom  unite  in  pronouncing  him  a conscientious 
physician  and  a man  of  high  principles. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


307 


On  December  28,  1898,  Dr.  Starr  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Sarah 
Crane,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wilder  Willard  Crane,  of  Weyauwega,  Wis- 
consin, the  marriage  taking  place  in  that  city.  Mr.  Crane  was  a lumberman  and 
very  prominent  in  his  district.  Dr.  and  A'Irs.  Starr  are  the  parents  of  two  daugh- 
ters, Ruth  I.  and  Elizabeth  E. 

Dr.  Starr  has  been  intimately  connected  with  the  public  life  of  Stanley  and 
Chippewa  county,  having  served  for  four  years  as  a member  of  the  city  school 
board  and  for  the  same  period  of  time  as  county  health  officer,  doing  valuable 
work  in  both  positions.  Besides  his  own  residence  he  owns  a valuable  farm  of 
one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  34,  Colburn  township,  this  county.  His 
political  support  is  given  to  the  democratic  party.  Fraternally  he  is  a member  of 
the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America,  the  Beavers  and  the  Woodmen  of  the  World. 
That  he  is  interested  in  church  work  is  evident  from  the  fact  that  he  is  a member 
and  serves  as  elder  of  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Stanley  and  he  has  always 
taken  an  active  interest  in  the  movements  which  make  for  the  betterment  of 
the  Stanley  country  and  which  tend  to  elevate  the  moral  or  intellectual  status 
of  its  people. 


WESLEY  W.  SHONG. 

Prominently  identified  with  various  important  corporate  interests  of  Boyd, 
Wesley  W.  Shong  figures  as  one  of  the  most  progressive  and  representative  men 
of  the  town.  In  partnership  with  his  father  he  owns  and  operates  a large 
planing  and  sawmill  and  he  has  other  important  business  identifications,  his 
interests  touching  closely  the  financial  and  commercial  development  of  the  com- 
munity. He  was  born  in  Augusta,  Lincoln  township,  Eau  Claire  county,  April 
21,  1875,  a son  of  Charles  and  Esther  (Williams)  Shong,  natives  of  New  York- 
state,  the  former  born  in  1843  ar*d  the  tatter  in  1848.  The  father  came  to  Wis- 
consin about  1865  and  has  followed  farming  in  Lincoln  township  for  many  years. 
He  is  associated  with  his  son  as  a partner  in  the  operation  of  a planing  and  saw- 
mill at  Boyd.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  six  children:  Wesley  W., 
of  This  review;  Verna,  who  married  Frank  Scott,  a farmer  at  Otter  Creek; 
Clara,  who  became  the  wife  of  Burl  Arris,  a farmer  of  Otter  Creek,  by  whom 
she  has  three  children;  Bessie,  the  wife  of  Richard  Temple,  a rancher  in  Mon- 
tana by  whom  she  has  one  child;  and  John  and  Robert. 

Wesley  W.  Shong  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Lincoln 
township  which  he  attended  until  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age.  After  laying 
aside  his  books  he  spent  six  years  upon  the  farm  and  then  joined  his  father  in 
the  operation  of  a lumber  mill  in  Ludington  township,  Eau  Claire  county.  In 
1905  he  moved  to  Boyd  and  there  in  partnership  with  his  father  bought  the 
planing  and  sawmill  which  he  has  operated  since  that  time.  Under  his  able 
management  it  has  become  a large  and  flourishing  enterprise,  controlling  a large 
market  and  supplying  a representative  and  growing  patronage.  In  addition  to 
the  mill  and  yard  the  partners  own  also  five  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land 
in  Ludington  township,  Eau  Claire  county,  one  hundred  and  sixty  on  section  6, 
range  5 west  and  three  hundred  and  sixty  on  section  2,  range  6 west,  all  in  town- 


308 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ship  27.  Mr.  Shong  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens’  State  Bank  of  Boyd  and 
the  Lndington  Telephone  Company  and  is  a man  of  recognized  business  ability 
and  prominence. 

At  Lincoln,  Eau  Claire  county,  on  the  24th  of  December,  1901,  Mr.  Shong 
married  Miss  Anna  Fedler,  a daughter  of  Wenzel  and  Katherine  (Kadlets) 
Fedler.  Her  father  is  a well  known  farmer  of  Glenmore  township,  Brown 
county.  In  the  family  were  the  following  children:  Mary;  Frank,  who  has 
passed  away;  Wenzel;  Anna,  wife  of  the  subject  of  this  review;  Anton;  Fred, 
also  deceased;  John  and  Frank.  Mrs.  Schong  has  also  a half  brother,  Joseph. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shong  are  the  parents  of  two  children : Esther  A.  and  Robert  C. 
The  family  attend  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  Mr.  Shong  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  takes  an  intelligent  interest  in  the  welfare 
and  development  of  Boyd.  He  is  well  known  and  favorably  regarded  in  business 
circles  and  wherever  he  is  known  he  is  held  in  high  esteem  by  reason  of  his 
genuine  personal  worth. 


JACOB  SAVORD. 

Jacob  Savord,  whose  demise  occurred  in  Cleveland  township  on  the  15th  of 
February,  iqo 7,  was  for  a number  of  years  actively  and  successfully  identified 
with  agricultural  pursuits  there,  owning  and  operating  a well  improved  farm 
of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  2.  He  was  born  in  Canada  on  the 
15th  of  March,  1845,  ar>d  ’n  early  manhood  was  a sailor  for  several  years  then 
crossed  the  border  into  the  United  States,  locating  in  northern  Minnesota,  where 
he  was  engaged  in  business  for  some  time.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period 
he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  eventually  set- 
tled on  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  government  land  in  section  2,  Cleveland 
township.  He  made  a number  of  substantial  improvements  on  the  property  and 
there  carried  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  until  called  to  his  final  rest,  winning 
and  maintaining  a reputation  as  one  of  the  prosperous  and  respected  citizens  of 
his  community. 

At  Keystone,  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Savord  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Lucy  Violett,  a native  of  Canada,  who  died  at  the  age  of  twenty-eight  years, 
leaving  her  husband  with  five  children.  The  responsibility  which  thus  fell  upon 
him  was  a grave  one,  for  some  of  the  children  were  still  small  and  one  was  but 
an  infant.  His  mother-in-law,  who  lived  with  him  for  a few  years  and  died 
on  his  farm,  assisted  him  in  rearing  the  family,  but  he  largely  trained  and  edu- 
cated them  alone.  The  children  were  named  as  follows : Louis,  George,  Charles, 
Clara  and  Lucy.  Mr.  Savord  was  a democrat  in  politics  and  a prominent  worker 
in  the  local  ranks  of  the  party.  In  religious  faith  he  was  a Catholic,  and  his 
life  in  all  of  its  various  relations  was  of  such  character  as  to  command  the  respect 
and  esteem  of  those  with  whom  he  was  associated. 

Charles  Savord,  son  of  Jacob  Savord,  was  born  on  the  home  farm  in  Cleve- 
land township  and  attended  the  district  schools  in  the  acquirement  of  an  educa- 
tion. At  the  time  of  his  father’s  demise  he  bought  out  the  other  heirs  in  the  home- 
stead property,  which  has  since  remained  in  his  possession.  He  carries  on  gen- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


309 


eral  farming  with  excellent  success,  for  his  land  is  productive  and  his  place  is 
well  improved  in  every  particular. 

In  Chippewa  county,  Air.  Savord  was  joined  in- wedlock  to  Miss  Barbara 
Jeneman,  her  parents  being  Joseph  and  Catherine  (Fleer)  Jeneman,  now  deceased. 
By  this  union  there  is  one  child,  Clarence. 

Air.  Savord  has  served  as  township  supervisor  for  two  years,  while  for  one 
vear  he  acted  in  the  capacity  of  township  treasurer.  His  religious  faith  is  indi- 
cated by  his  membership  in  the  Catholic  church  at  Flambeau.  He  has  always 
resided  in  this  county  and  is  widely  recognized  as  an  enterprising  young  agri- 
culturist and  progressive  citizen. 


J.  B.  HALVERSON. 

After  a long  and  distinguished  business  career  J.  B.  Halverson  has  since 
1910  served  as  cashier  of  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State  Bank  of  Stanley.  He 
became  connected  with  this  institution  in  1906  as  assistant  cashier  and  in  1910 
was  promoted  to  the  position  which  he  now  occupies.  He  also  is  a substantial 
stockholder  and  a director  of  this  bank.  Aloreover,  he  has  other  important  finan- 
cial interests  and  is  considered  one  of  the  most  shrewd  and  able  bankers  of  this 
part  of  the  state.  Public  affairs  have  ever  interested  him  and  he  has  also  endeavored 
to  spread  the  spirit  of  brotherly  love  by  the  means  of  his  church,  in  the  work  of 
which  he  is  deeply  interested.  Mr.  Halverson  was  born  in  Jackson  county,  this 
state,  April  12,  1864,  and  is  a son  of  Halver  Halverson  Haugsjerd,  who  was 
born  in  Norway  in  1825.  He  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1858,  settling  in  Dane  county, 
where  he  became  one  of  the  early  pioneers  and  whence  he  later  removed  to  Alin- 
nesota.  Indians  forced  him  during  the  early  times  to  flee  from  his  home  and 
he  then  went  to  Jackson  county,  Wisconsin,  where  his  death  occurred  in  1883. 
He  married  Aliss  Torbor  Sjurson,  who  was  born  in  Norway  in  1826.  At  the 
age  of  eighty-seven  she  lives  in  Jackson  county,  Wisconsin,  still  showing  an 
active  interest  in  her  surroundings  and  her  family. 

J.  B.  Halverson  is  one  of  a family  of  eight  children,  of  whom  five  are  still 
living.  He  was  educated  in  the  public  schools  of  Jackson  county  until  seventeen 
years  of  age  and  subsequently  graduated  from  the  Indiana  Normal  School  and 
Business  Institute  at  Valparaiso,  Indiana,  in  1887.  He  made  his  first  step  into 
business  life  in  connection  with  the  Alercantile  Association  of  Pigeon  Falls,  Wis- 
consin, remaining  with  them  as  clerk,  bookkeeper  and  cashier  for  a period  of 
eleven  years.  He  then  engaged  in  business  for  himself  at  Northfield,  Wiscon- 
sin, under  the  name  of  Steen,  Halverson  & Company,  conducting  a general  store 
for  eight  years.  He  then  removed  to  A'linneapolis,  where  he  engaged  in  the 
manufacture  of  envelope  openers  for  about  a year.  At  the  end  of  that  period 
he  came  to  Stanley,  entering  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State  Bank  as  assistant 
cashier  in  1906.  In  1910  he  was  made  cashier  of  this  institution.  Air.  Halver- 
son gives  his  undivided  attention  to  the  affairs  of  the  bank  and  while  he  is  pro- 
gressive in  his  undertakings  he  is  conservative  in  judging  of  the  investments 
which  this  institution  makes.  He  is  ever  ready  to  extend  credit  to  worthy  patrons 
for  such  enterprises  as  need  legitimate  help  if  he  deems  the  collateral  offered 


310 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


safe  enough  for  the  bank  to  accept  it.  Shrewd,  able  and  conscientious,  Mr.  Hal- 
verson has  become  recognized  as  an  authority  on  finance  in  his  part  of  Wisconsin 
and  occupies  in  commercial  circles  of  the  community  a foremost  position.  He 
owns  two  residences  in  Stanley  and  besides  being  cashier  of  the  Farmers  & Mer- 
chants Bank  is  also  a large  stockholder  and  a director.  He  also  is  interested  in 
the  Union  State  Bank  of  Minneapolis,  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Cadott,  Chip- 
pewa county,  and  in  the  Steen  Mercantile  Company  of  Northfield,  Wisconsin. 
He  is  in  addition  a stockholder  in  the  Alberta  Farm  Company  of  Milk  River, 
Alberta,  Canada. 

On  October  14,  1893,  Mr.  Halverson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Gina 
Ekern,  a daughter  of  Anthony  and  Louisa  Ekern,  of  Trempealeau  county,  Wis- 
consin, the  ceremony  taking  place  at  the  home  of  the  bride.  In  his  district  the 
father  is  prominent  as  a successful  agriculturist.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Halverson  became 
the  parents  of  seven  children : Ames,  who  died  at  the  age  of  seven  years ; Thelma 
L. ; Lenard ; Arnold,  who  died  at  the  age  of  nine  months;  and  Amy,  Mabel  and 
Berenice,  all  at  home. 

Since  1890  Mr.  Halverson  has  served  as  notary  public  in  Trempealeau,  Chip- 
pewa and  Jackson  counties.  For  eight  years  he  served  as  justice  of  the  peace, 
establishing  a high  reputation  among  his  fellow  citizens  by  his  fair  and  impartial 
decisions.  Fraternally  he  is  a member  of  the  I.  S.  W.  A.  and  politically  he  is  a 
progressive  republican.  While  residing  at  Pigeon  Falls  he  served  for  eight  years 
as  assistant  postmaster.  He  is  secretary  of  the  Progressive  League  and  a member 
of  the  school  board  and  is  also  a member  and  treasurer  of  the  United  Lutheran 
church.  The  career  of  Mr.  Halverson  sets  forth  what  can  be  attained  when 
industry  and  energy  lead  the  way  and  the  success  which  has  come  to  him  is  the 
more  creditable  as  it  has  been  brought  about  entirely  by  his  own  labors.  He 
enjoys  in  an  extraordinary  degree  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  his  fellow  citizens, 
who  trust  him  implicitly  and  have  great  faith  in  him  as  an  authority  on  financial, 
real-estate  and  commercial  matters. 


MRS.  JULIA  OLIN  ELLIS. 

Mrs.  Julia  Olin  Ellis  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  fine  land  on  section 
23,  Howard  township,  and  is  conducting  this  property  as  a dairy  farm,  proving 
herself  as  capable  as  any  man  in  the  direction  and  control  of  her  interests.  She 
is  the  widow  of  Idewellyn  Ellis,  one  of  the  best  known  farmers  of  that  township 
and  one  who  was  identified  for  more  than  thirty  years  with  the  progress  and 
development  of  its  agricultural  interests.  He  was  the  youngest  of  nine  children 
born  to  Joshua  and  Elfrida  (Hilton)  Ellis,  of  English  ancestry,  and  he  was  born 
at  Madison,  Somerset  county,  Maine,  May  19,  1847.  His  childhood  and  early 
youth  were  spent  on  the  New  England  farm  and  from  Maine  he  came  in  1868  to 
Wisconsin,  settling  first  in  Oshkosh,  where  he  remained  two  years,  and  then  in 
Eau  Claire.  Shortly  after  he  located  in  the  latter  city  he  engaged  in  the  lumbering 
business  as  a contractor,  operating  camps  on  the  Chippewa  river  and  its  numerous 
tributaries.  In  1876,  however,  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  buying  a tract 
of  land  from  F.  W.  Woodward.  His  holdings  were  located  in  Howard  township. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


311 


on  section  23,  and  upon  this  property  he  continued  to  reside  until  his  death,  giving 
his  attention  to  diversified  farming  and  specializing  in  the  rearing  of  improved 
grades  of  dairy  cattle  and  various  breeds  of  sheep.  The  results  of  his  efforts 
proved  highly  satisfactory  and  he  was  one  of  the  most  successful  breeders  in 
Chippewa  county,  his  animals  being  notable  features  of  any  fair  in  which  they 
were  exhibited.  Mr.  Ellis  was  president  of  the  local  union  of  the  American  Society 
of  Equity  after  its  organization  in  1904  and  was  president  of  the  Town  Line 
Creamery  Association  for  several  years,  having  been  reelected  on  January  1,  1910, 
on  the  day  on  which  his  fatal  illness  began.  He  was  also  a member  of  the  Wis- 
consin Live  Stock  Association,  and  a life  member  of  the  Northwestern  Fair  Asso- 
ciation. 

Mr.  Ellis  married,  in  Eau  Claire,  July  3,  1882,  Miss  Julia  E.  Olin,  of  that  city, 
and  they  became  the  parents  of  two  children : Myra,  the  wife  of  Ole  Olson,  a 
farmer  of  Chippewa  county;  and  Elvira,  who  married  H.  E.  Craft,  also  engaged 
in  farming  in  this  county.  Mr.  Ellis  passed  away  January  12,  1910,  and  his  death 
was  deeply  and  sincerely  regretted,  for.  he  was  a man  of  upright  character  and 
high  principles  and  he  held  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  were  associated 
with  him.  Mrs.  Ellis  owns  the  homestead,  consisting  of  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres,  and  is  conducting  there  a large  dairy,  the  products  of  which  command  a 
high  price  and  a ready  sale  on  the  market.  She  has  been  very  active  in  securing 
public  utilities  for  the  township,  being  the  first  one  to  seek  the  establishment  of 
a mail  route,  and  the  first  one  to  work  for  the  establishment  of  a telephone  line. 
Mrs.  Ellis  has  a diploma  as  a professional  nurse  in  addition  to  her  other  achieve- 
ments. Her  ability  is  respected  in  business  circles,  and  in  private  life  her  many 
excellent  qualities  of  character  have  gained  for  her  an  extensive  circle  of  friends. 


ANTON  L.  SOLI. 

Anton  L.  Soli,  engaging  in  general  farming  and  dairying  on  a fine  tract  of 
forty  acres  lying  on  section  14,  Delmar  township,  is  a native  of  Norway,  born  Jan- 
uary 14,  1864.  His  parents,  Lars,  and  Olina  (Christianson)  Hansen,  were  also 
natives  of  that  country  and  the  father  was  employed  in  the  sawmills  there  for 
many  years.  They  came  to  Stanley,  Wisconsin,  in  1895  and  he  remained  a resident 
of  that  community  until  his  death  in  1899.  He  had  survived  his  wife  several 
years,  she  having  passed  away  in  1884.  In  their  family  were  nine  children, 
seven  of  whom  are  still  living,  as  follows:  Hannah,  John,  Hans,  Anton,  Carl, 

Marius  and  Dora. 

Anton  L.  Soli  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway,  attend- 
ing until  the  year  1880.  He  afterwards  worked  in  the  sawmills  in  his  native 
country  for  two  years  and  then  emigrated  to  America  settling  in  Eau  Claire,  Wis- 
consin. He  resumed  his  former  occupation,  there  remaining  until  1884,  when  he 
returned  to  Norway  for  his  marriage.  In  the  following  year  he  settled  again  in 
Eau  Claire,  where  he  maintained  his  residence  until  1900,  in  which  vear  he  pur- 
chased forty  acres  of  land  on  section  14,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  upon 
this  property  he  has  since  resided.  He  has  given  special  attention  to  dairying  and 
is  also  to  some  extent  interested  in  stock-raising,  keeping  eight  head  of  cattle 


312 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  two  horses.  He  has  made  extensive  improvements  upon  his  property,  erecting 
substantial  barns  and  outbuildings,  and  he  keeps  everything  about  the  place  in 
excellent  condition. 

On  the  22d  of  November,  1885,  Mr.  Soli  married  Miss  Annie  Larsen,  a 
daughter  of  Lars  and  Ingebor  (Anderson)  Jonssen.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Soli  became 
the  parents  of  nine  children,  Carl,  Arthur,  Hartvig,  Jennie,  Dagny,  Gunda,  Peter, 
Ingebor,  and  a child  who  died  in  infancy.  The  parents  are  members  of  the 
United  Lutheran  church  in  which  Mr.  Soli  is  a deacon.  He  is  an  independent 
republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  interested  in  everything  pertaining  to  the 
welfare  of  the  county,  although  he  is  not  active  as  a politician.  His  attention 
is  given  chiefly  to  his  agricultural  pursuits  and  in  these  he  has  won  that  success 
which  always  follows  earnest  and  persistent  labor. 


CHARLES  P.  BARKER. 

As  owner  of  the  Barker  Dairy  Farm,  situated  on  sections  1,  2 and  it,  Wheaton 
township,  Chippewa  county,  Charles  P.  Barker  occupies  an  important  position 
in  dairying  and  stock-breeding  circles.  Although  he  is  not  yet  thirty  years  of 
age,  he  has  already  achieved  a decided  success  which  must  be  entirely  attributed 
to  his  modern  and  up-to-date  methods  and  the  careful  attention  which  he  gives 
to  his  interests.  Mr.  Barker  is  a highly  educated  man  and  makes  use  of  much  of 
what  he  has  learned  in  the  operation  of  his  farm.  He  is  a native  of  Chippewa 
county  and  was  born  on  the  farm  which  he  now  owns,  June  9,  1884,  a son  of 
Herbert  C.  and  Clara  I.  (Slayton)  Barker.  The  father  came  with  his  father, 
Charles  P.  Barker,  from  Maine.  The  latter  was  one  of  the  largest  lumber  loggers 
in  this  part  of  Wisconsin,  and  it  was  he  who  made  settlement  on  the  land  and 
began  its  improvement.  He  was  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war  and  was  highly 
esteemed  by  all  who  knew  him.  Herbert  C.  Barker,  the  father  of  our  subject, 
was  the  first  man  to  introduce  pure-bred  Holstein  cattle  into  this  part  of 
the  county,  and  at  the  time  of  his  death  had  the  finest  herd  in  this  portion  of 
Wisconsin.  He  died  in  1896,  at  the  comparatively  early  age  of  thirty-eight  years, 
being  accidentally  killed  by  his  own  Holstein  bull.  He  found  burial  in  the 
Forest  Hill  cemetery.  His  wife  survives  and  now  makes  her  home  in  Chippewa 
Falls.  The  Barker  family  is  of  British  origin  but  has  long  been  established  in 
this  country,  some  of  the  members  having  fought  throughout  the  Revolutionary 
war. 

Charles  P.  Barker  received  his  primary  education  in  the  public  and  high 
schools,  from  the  latter  of  which  he  graduated  in  1902  and  then  entered  the 
University  of  Wisconsin  From  that  institution  he  received  the  degree  of  A.  B. 
in  1906  and  the  degree  of  B.  S.  in  G.  E.  in  1907.  He  then  entered  the  employ 
of  the  United  States  Steel  Corporation  in  Joliet  as  steam  expert,  holding  that 
position  until  taking  charge  -of  the  Barker  Dairy  Farm,  which  comprises  two 
hundred  and  eighty  acres  of  land.  Here  he  has  made  numerous  modern  improve- 
ments not  only  in  buildings  and  machinery  but  also  in  methods  of  operation,  and 
he  is  at  present  making  plans  for  an  entirely  modern  dairy  plant.  He  also  gives 
much  attention  to  the  breeding  of  pure-bred  Holstein  cattle. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


313 


In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  August  31,  1907,  Mr.  Barker  married  Miss  Margaret 
Hurd,  a daughter  of  Dr.  H.  H.  and  Minnie  (Robinson)  Hurd.  Of  this  union 
there  has  been  born  one  daughter,  Polly  Hurd. 

Mr.  Barker  is  a republican  in  his  political  affiliations.  He  is  a Tau  Beta  Pi, 
member  of  a national  honorary  engineering  fraternity,  and  of  the  Sigma  Nu,  a Greek 
letter  society.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  members  of  the  Episcopal  church.  While 
Mr.  Barker  has  attained  individual  success  and  is  one  of  the  substantial  men  of  his 
locality,  he  has  done  much  toward  furthering  dairy  interests  by  introducing  new 
methods  and  new  ideas.  He  is  an  enthusiastic,  progressive  young  man  and  takes 
interest  in  all  that  pertains  to  the  welfare  of  his  district.  Although  he  is  not 
politically  active,  he  is  ever  ready  to  give  of  his  time  and  money  toward  worthy 
public  enterprises  and  his  citizenship  is  of  the  truly  helpful  kind. 


CARL  M.  TOFT. 

After  a number  of  years’  connection  with  the  optical  and  jewelry  department 
of  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company,  Carl  M.  Toft  established  in  1913  a store 
of  his  own,  which  enjoys  an  ever-increasing  and  representative  patronage.  He 
has  made  a study  of  his  trade  and  graduated  with  high  honors  from  the  optical 
department  of  the  Northern  Illinois  College,  so  that  he  is  well  fitted  to  conduct 
an  enterprise  of  this  character.  He  also  deserves  mention  for  the  fact  that  he 
was  one  of  those  who  participated  in  the  Cuban  and  Porto  Rican  campaigns, 
offering  his  services  in  order  to  uphold  the  honor  of  the  American  flag  in  this 
cause.  Mr.  Toft  was  born  in  Seattle,  Washington,  October  31,  1876.  His 
father,  Evan  A.  Toft,  was  born  in  Norway  in  1844,  and  at  the  age  of  twenty-five 
years  crossed  the  ocean  and  went  to  Chicago.  He  was  a jeweler  by  trade  and 
now  makes  his  home  in  Grafton,  North  Dakota.  The  mother  before  her  mar- 
riage was  Christina  Nelson  and  was  born  in  Norway  in  1854,  coming  to  America 
when  eighteen  years  of  age.  In  their  family  were  eleven  children,  Carl  M., 
Alma  B.,  Elmer  C.,  Helga  L.,  Paul  G.,  Arthur  W.,  Mabel  O.,  Clarence,  and  three 
who  died  in  infancy. 

Carl  M.  Toft  was  educated  in  the  high  school  of  Menominie,  Wisconsin,  which 
he  attended  until  seventeen  years  of  age,  when  he  entered  Trowbridge’s  school 
at  Winona,  this  state,  graduating  in  1894.  In  1900  he  graduated  from  the  North- 
ern Illinois  College  at  Chicago  with  the  degree  of  Doctor  of  Optics.  He  then 
came  to  Stanley,  taking  charge  of  the  jewelry  and  optical  department  of  the 
Northwestern  Lumber  Company  and  remaining  in  that  position  for  thirteen  years. 
In  1913  he  opened  his  present  store  and  has  since  been  very  successful  in  this 
undertaking.  He  carries  a complete  line  of  the  latest  goods,  affording  his  cus- 
tomers a selection  which  is  rarely  to  be  met  with  in  a town  of  the  size  of  Stanley. 
His  stock  is  valued  at  four  thousand  dollars. 

At  Stanley,  Wisconsin,  on  the  24th  of  June,  1903,  Mr.  Toft  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Sarah  E.  Dunn,  a daughter  of  John  and  Clara  (Westphall) 
Dunn,  the  former  a well  known  hotel  proprietor  of  Stanley.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Toft 
are  the  parents  of  four  children:  John  W.,  Dorothy  M.,  Lawrence  G.,  and 

Eleanor  Grace. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


314 


Mr.  Toft  is  a member  of  Company  E,  Third  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry. 
For  six  months  he  was  stationed  with  his  company  at  Chickamauga  and  then  did 
detached  service  as  mounted  orderly  for  General  Ernest  for  one  year.  He  served 
with  distinction  in  Cuba  and  Porto  Rico  and  in  1899  was  discharged  from  the 
United  States  service.  Fraternally  Mr.  Toft  is  a member  of  the  Masons,  the 
Beavers  and  the  I.  S.  W.  A.  He  is  also  a popular  and  progressive  young  business 
man  and  highly  esteemed  and  respected  in  his  city.  He  finds  recreation  and 
pleasure  in  fishing  and  hunting.  The  career  of  Mr.  Toft  is  proof  of  the  fact 
that  ambition  will  find  a way  to  succeed  and  it  is  for  his  determined  qualities  of 
character  that  he  is  admired  by  all  who  know  him. 


WILLIAM  IRVINE. 

Since  William  Irvine  was  fifteen  years  of  age  he  has  been  identified  with 
the  lumber  business  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  during  that  time  has  constantly  ex- 
tended the  scope  of  his  activities  as  his  powers  and  opportunities  developed  until 
today  his  important  and  varied  connections  with  lumber  interests  make  him  one 
of  the  greatest  individual  forces  in  the  development  of  this  industry  in  the  state. 
Lie  is  known  as  a conservative,  farsighted  and  capable  man  of  business,  with  a 
thorough  understanding  of  his  special  field  and  a power  and  insight  which  would 
spell  success  along  any  line.  Mr.  Irvine  was  born  in  Mount  Carroll,  Illinois, 
October  28,  1851,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Amanda  M.  (Fitch)  Irvine,  the 
former  a native  of  Indiana  county,  Pennsylvania,  of  Scotch-Irish  ancestry,  and 
the  latter  of  Delaware  county,  New  York.  Their  marriage  occurred  in  Mount 
Carroll,  Illinois,  whither  the  father  had  come  in  1845.  In  that  year  he  established 
himself  in  the  mercantile  business  there  and  so  continued  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1873.  His  wife  survived  him  until  1900.  Both  were  members  of 
the  Methodist  church. 

William  Irvine  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Mount 
Carroll  and  at  Mount  Carroll  Seminary.  At  the  age  of  fifteen  he  went  to  work 
for  his  brother-in-law,  who  was  captain  of  a raft  boat  towing  lumber  from  the 
Chippewa  Falls  sawmills  to  Mississippi  river  points.  Mr.  Irvine  engaged  as 
watchman  and  then  as  clerk,  so  continuing  until  1875,  when  he  was  made  sales- 
man for  the  Union  Lumbering  Company  of  Chippewa  Falls,  his  territory  lying 
along  the  Mississippi  river  from  Winona  to  St.  Louis.  This  position  offered 
him  many  opportunitities  to  display  his  energy,  aggressiveness  and  foresight  and 
he  did  not  hesitate  to  avail  himself  of  them,  becoming  one  of  the  most  trusted 
and  reliable  employes  of  the  firm  he  represented.  He  advanced  rapidly,  becom- 
ing in  1881  secretary  of  the  company,  and  in  1885  manager,  and  he  held  this 
position  until  1911,  when  manufacturing  at  this  point  was  discontinued.  In  the 
forty-five  years  during  which  he  was  connected  with  the  Chippewa  Falls  saw- 
mills he  learned  every  detail  of  the  lumber  business,  studying  both  the  mechan- 
ical and  administrative  branches  and  never  neglecting  any  opportunity  to  increase 
his  knowledge  or  add  to  his  skill.  He  gained  recognition  as  an  expert  in  the 
lumber  business,  a leader  in  the  development  of  the  lumber  industry  in  the  state 
and  the  years  brought  him  many  important  business  identifications,  connecting 


WILLIAM  IRVINE 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


317 


him  with  notable  interests  along  his  chosen  line.  He  is  secretary  of  the  North- 
ern Lumber  Company  of  Cloquet,  Minnesota,  and  interested  in  various  other 
lumber  concerns,  holding  stock  in  a number  of  the  Weyerhaeuser  companies. 
He  is  vice  president  of  the  Lumbermen’s  National  Bank,  was  for  three  years 
president  of  the  Mississippi  Valley  Lumbermen's  Association  and  for  two  years 
president  of  the  National  Lumber  Manufacturers’  Association.  His  interests 
have  extended  to  other  fields  also,  as  is  evidenced  by  the  fact  that  he  is  a member 
of  the  board  of  directors  of  the  Wisconsin  Central  Railroad  Company  and  a 
trustee  of  the  Northwestern  Mutual  Life  Insurance  Company. 

On  the  8th  of  October,  1873,  at  Mount  Carroll,  Illinois,  Mr.  Irvine  married 
Miss  Adelaide  M.  Beardsley,  a daughter  of  Orlando  S.  Beardsley,  a prominent 
stock  farmer  in  that  vicinity.  The  father  died  in  1883  and  is  survived  by.  his 
wife.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Irvine  have  one  daughter,  Ruth.  Mr.  Irvine  attends  the 
Presbyterian  church,  although  he  is  not  a member,  and  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Masonic  lodge  and  chapter  in  Chippewa  Falls,  Tancred  Commandery 
and  the  Wisconsin  Consistory.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republi- 
can party  but  his  extensive  and  always  growing  business  affairs  have  left  him 
very  little  time  for  activity  in  public  affairs.  He  is  easily  among  the  leading 
business  men  of  the  state  and  has  been  a powerful  force  in  the  development  of 
the  lumber  industry  here  for  the  past  half  century.  He  is  a man  of  marked 
individuality,  strong  character  and  stalwart  purpose,  who  in  citizenship,  in  busi- 
ness circles  and  in  private  life  commands  the  respect  of  all  with  whom  he  has 
been  brought  in  contact. 


S.  B.  NIMMONS. 

S.  B.  Nimmons  was  born  at  Rockland  Farms,  Westchester  county,  New  York, 
June  15,  1863,  and  is  a son  of  Samuel  and  Amelia  (Archer)  Nimmons,  the 
former  of  whom  was  a merchant  in  early  times  in  New  York  city.  He  died  in 
1888  and  his  wife  survived  him  until  1913.  Both  are  buried  in  the  cemetery  at 
Chatham,  New  Jersey. 

S.  B.  Nimmons  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Summit,  New 
Jersey.  He  began  work  at  the  age  of  fifteen  as  an  employe  of  a brokerage  firm 
in  New  York  city  and  after  five  years  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  where  he  became 
connected  with  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company  as  clerk.  At  the  end  of 
two  years  he  moved  to  Montana  and  there  spent  a short  period  on  a sheep  ranch 
and  also  engaged  in  the  mercantile  business.  He  then  returned  to  Chippewa 
Falls  and  entered  the  employ  of  the  Lumbermens  National  Bank  as  clerk.  He 
was  elected  cashier  of  the  bank  in  1890,  and  has  occupied  that  position  since, 
and  is  also  one  of  the  directors  of  that  institution.  In  Chippewa  Falls  he  is  known 
as  a conservative  banker  whose  judgment  in  financial  matters  is  considered  sound 
and  reliable.  He  is  also  one  of  the  executors  of  the  Rutledge  estate,  secretary  and 
treasurer  of  the  Hannah  M.  Rutledge  Home  for  the  x\ged,  and  secretary  and  trea- 
surer of  the  Edward  Rutledge  Charity,  and  was  formerly  connected  writh  the 
school  board  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  the  new  high  school  was  erected  during  his 
term  of  service. 


voi.  n— 1 7 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


318 

In  St.  Paul,  Minnesota,  September  25,  1888,  Mr.  Nimmons  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Kate  Rumsey,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  Rumsey,  the 
former  one  of  the  early  merchants  of  Chippewa  Falls.  He  has  passed  away  but  his 
wife  survives  him,  making  her  home  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Nimmons 
have  two  daughters : Mary,  who  is  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa  high  school ; and 

Charlotte,  who  is  a graduate  of  the  domestic  science  department  of  Stout  institute. 

Mr.  Nimmons  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  independent  in  politics. 


MRS.  CARRIE  F.  MILLIONS. 

Mrs.  Carrie  F.  Millions,  the  widow  of  Chauncey  K.  Millions,  came  to  this 
county  from  Loganville,  Wisconsin,  in  [883  and  has  resided  here  through  the 
intervening  three  decades.  The  farm  which  she  owns  comprises  three  hundred 
and  seven  acres  of  land  on  section  36,  Sigel  township.  Her  birth  occurred  in 
Madison,  Wisconsin,  on  the  1st  of  December,  1858,  her  parents  being  A.  D.  and 
Hannah  (Carly)  Gibson,  both  of  whom  lie  buried  in  Chippewa  county.  The 
father  passed  away  in  1862,  while  the  mother’s  demise  occurred  in  1890. 

Carrie  F.  Gibson  attended  the  schools  of  Loganville  until  fifteen  years  of  age 
and  subsequently  spent  about  eight  years  in  the  service  of  a hotel  proprietor.  On 
the  24th  of  December,  1881,  she  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  Chauncey  K. 
Millions,  a son  of  John  and  Eliza  (King)  Millions,  both  of  whom  have  passed 
away  and  were  buried  at  Elbridge,  New  York.  Chauncey  K.  Millions  was  one 
of  the  first  settlers  of  Cadott,  Wisconsin,  where  he  operated  the  first  sawmill. 
He' also  built  a hotel  in  the  town  in  1882,  known  as  the  Central  Hotel,  and  carried 
on  business  there  for  several  years.  At  the  time  of  his  demise  he  left  his  wife 
a well  improved  farm  of  three  hundred  and  seven  acres  on  section  36,  Sigel 
township,  where  she  has  since  carried  on  mixed  farming,  keeping  about  seven 
horses,  thirty-five  cattle  and  thirty-five  hogs.  The  improvements  on  the  property 
include  a substantial  residence,  barn  and  other  outbuildings,  and  the  place  presents 
a neat  and  well  kept  appearance. 

LTnto  Air.  and  Mrs.  Millions  were  born  two  children,  as  follows:  William  S., 
who  resides  with  his  widowed  mother ; and  Albert  C.,  who  is  employed  as  foreman 
by  the  Keith  & Hiles  Lumber  Company  at  Crandon,  Wisconsin.  Mrs.  Millions 
has  won  many  friends  in  her  home  community,  for  her  life  has  ever  been  such 
as  to  attract  them. 


JAMES  AGNEW  WATSON. 

Among  the  popular  young  men  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  those  who  are  con- 
nected with  the  government  in  official  capacity  is  James  Agnew  Watson,  assistant 
postmaster  of  the  local  office.  A native  of  Wisconsin,  he  was  born  at  Menasha 
on  June  9,  1880,  and  when  but  two  years  of  age  came  to  this  county  in  1882. 
He  is  a son  of  James  O.  and  Agnes  M.  (Agnew)  Watson,  both  of  whom  now 
reside  in  Chippew^a  Falls.  The  father  is  very  popular  and  prominent  in  the  city. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


319 


enjoying  the  confidence  of  the  general  public  and  the  esteem  of  a large  circle 
of  admiring  friends.  In  their  family  were  three  children : Frank,  who  died  on 

June  6,  1910,  and  is  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls;  George,  who  has  also  passed  away 
and  found  his  last  resting  place  in  Oshkosh,  Wisconsin;  and  James  Agnew. 

James  Agnew  Watson  was  reared  by  his  parents  and  early  there  was  fostered 
in  him  a realization  of  the  value  of  industry  and  honesty.  He  received  a good 
education,  attending  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school,  which  he  left  at  the  age  of 
seventeen  in  order  to  enter  the  Drew  School  of  Pharmacy,  which  he  attended  for 
nine  months.  Returning  to  Chippewa  Falls,  he  then  entered  business  with  his 
brother  in  the  drug  line  and  for  eight  years  was  successfully  engaged  in  that  con- 
nection, their  store  becoming  one  of  the  most  popular  in  the  city.  For  a number 
of  years  Mr.  Watson  has  now  efficiently  filled  the  position  of  assistant  postmaster 
and  has  done  much  toward  maintaining  a highly  satisfactory  service. 

Mr.  Watson  is  prominent  in  the  Masonic  order,  being  a member  of  Chippewa 
Falls  Lodge,  No.  176,  A.  F.  & A.  M. ; Chippewa  Chapter,  No.  46,  R.  A.  M. ; and 
Tancred  Commandery,  No.  27,  K.  T.  He  has  attained  the  thirty-second  degree 
and  is  also  a member  of  Tripoli  Shrine  of  Milwaukee,  Nobles  of  the  Mystic 
Shrine.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Presbyterian  denomination  and  he  holds 
membership  in  the  local  church.  It  is  interesting  to  note  in  regard  to  his  family 
that  it  was  his  father  who  brought  the  first  locomotive  into  Chippewa  Falls  that 
ever  entered  the  city.  Mr.  Watson  stands  high  in  the  esteem  of  his  fellow  citizens 
and  the  confidence  which  he  enjoys  is  highly  merited,  for  it  is  given  in  return 
and  in  appreciation  of  qualities  which  are  considered  the  highest  virtues  in 
American  manhood. 


AUGUST  BRUSS. 

August  Bruss,  head  of  the  firm  of  August  Bruss  & Son,  hardware  dealers 
of  Boyd,  and  numbered  among  the  substantial  and  representative  business  men 
of  that  town,  was  born  in  Sheboygan  county,  this  state,  September  11,  1858.  He  is 
a son  of  August  and  Elizabeth  (Prock)  Bruss,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former 
born  in  1819  and  the  latter  in  1832.  Both  have  passed  away,  the  father  dying  in 
1887  and  the  mother  in  1892.  They  were  the  parents  of  thirteen  children: 
Charles,  Sophia,  August,  John,  Philip,  Henry,  Ernestina,  Lizzie,  Augusta,  Mary 
and  three  who  died  in  infancy. 

August  Bruss  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Manitowoc 
county,  but  his  advantages  along  this  line  were  limited  as  he  laid  aside  his  books 
at  the  age  of  ten.  He  afterwards  worked  in  the  woods  and  at  threshing  and  at 
various  other  occupations  until  he  was  twenty,  when  he  turned  his  attention 
to  farming,  working  as  a laborer  for  five  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  pur- 
chased forty  acres  and  this  farm  he  operated  until  1895.  He  then  sold  his  hold- 
ings and  opened  a saloon  and  li\ery  stable  in  Brillion.  This  enterprise  was  de- 
stroyed by  fire  in  1899  and  Mr.  Bruss  lost  his  entire  fortune,  but  with  characteris- 
tic energy  he  rebuilt  his  store  and  within  the  next  ten  years  secured  a large  and 
important  patronage.  In  1909  he  moved  to  Boyd  and  in  association  with  his 
son  John,  organized  the  firm  of  August  Bruss  & Son.  They  established  them- 


320 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


selves  in  the  hardware  business  and  have  been  very  successful,  their  stock  being 
valued  today  at  thirty-three  hundred  dollars. 

Mr.  Brass  married  Miss  Margaret  Ohlogge,  a daughter  of  John  Ohlogge  of 
Iialstine,  Wisconsin,  and  they  are  the  parents  of  four  children:  August,  Jr.; 

John;  Sobina;  and  Leona.  August  married  Miss  Emma  Kreiger  and  they  have 
two  children,  Estella  and  Clarence.  He  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Manitowoc 
county.  John  is  a partner  in  August  Brass  & Son.  He  married  Miss  Linda 
Butscher,  a daughter  of  Albert  Butscher.  Sobina  and  Leona  live  at  home. 

Mr.  Brass  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Equitable  fraternal  union  and  he 
is  a devout  member  of  the  Methodist  church.  He  is  independent  in  his  political 
views  and  has  held  some  public  offices  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  for 
three  years  as  trustee  of  Brillion  and  for  two  years  as  marshal.  Both  as  a public 
official  and  a business  man  his  record  is  a creditable  and  worthy  one  and  he  is 
moreover,  held  in  widespread  esteem  by  reason  of  his  genuine  personal  worth. 


ANDREW  N.  SNEEN. 

For  the  past  thirty-six  years  Andrew  N.  Sneen  has  been  connected  with  the 
Northwestern  Lumber  Company  at  Porters  Mills  and  Stanley  and  during  that 
time  has  risen  by  his  own  energy,  ability  and  enterprise  to  the  position  of  super- 
intendent of  the  mill,  which  he  has  held  since  1905.  He  was  born  in  Norway 
on  the  27th  of  October,  i860,  a son  of  Nels  and  Sigri  (Asppeggen)  Sneen,  also 
natives  of  that  country,  the  former  born  in  1834  and  the  latter  in  1836.  The 
parents  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1875  and  the  father  followed  farming  in  this  state 
until  his  death  which  occurred  in  1903.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her 
home  on  the  farm  near  Rock  Falls. 

Andrew  N.  Sneen  is  one  of  a family  of  six  children.  He  attended  public 
school  in  Norway  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age  and  then  accompanied  his 
parents  to  America,  pursuing  his  studies  for  five  months  in  Wisconsin.  He 
afterwards  worked  for  a short  time  in  a sawmill  and  in  1877  entered  the  employ 
of  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  at  Porters  Mills.  He  came  to  Stanley 
in  1893,  and  he  has  since  maintained  his  connection  with  the  company.  He  has 
risen  steadily;  for  his  employers  have  recognized  his  integrity,  trustworthiness 
and  reliability  and  have  rewarded  them  by  rapid  advancement.  In  1905  he  was 
made  superintendent  of  the  mill  and  has  since  discharged  the  duties  of  this  im- 
portant position  in  a capable  and  farsighted  manner. 

At  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  on  the  18th  of  June,  1882,  Mr.  Sneen  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Gertie  Hugdahl,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Andrew  Hug- 
dahl,  the  former  a well  known  farmer  of  Washburn.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Sneen 
became  the  parents  of  six  children:  Nels,  Oscar,  Oliver  and  Sigvald,  who  are 

living;  Olina  and  George,  who  have  passed  away. 

Mr.  Sneen  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America 
and  the  I.  S.  W.  A.  and  he  is  one  of  the  leading  members  of  the  United  Lutheran 
church,  having  been  a delegate  to  a number  of  church  conventions.  He  is  a 
stockholder  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  and  he  has  extensive  property  interests 
besides  his  residence  in  Stanley.  Lie  is  a stanch  republican  in  his  political  beliefs 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


321 


and  prominent  in  the  party’s  councils,  serving  as  a delegate  to  the  state  convention 
at  Milwaukee  when  Robert  La  Follette  was  made  a candidate  for  the  nomination 
to  the  office  of  governor  in  1900.  He  has  himself  held  a number  of  important 
positions,  having  been  for  six  terms  a member  of  the  board  of  aldermen  and  for 
two  terms  on  the  school  board.  He  takes  a great  interest  in  the  growth  and 
development  of  Stanley  and  is  always  to  be  found  among  the  leaders  in  any 
work  of  public  progress.  He  is  a man  of  great  energy,  force  and  capacity  and 
is  held  in  high  esteem  and  regard  as  a successful  business  man  and  a public- 
spirited  citizen. 


CHARLES  L.  SMITH. 

Charles  L.  Smith,  who  came  to  Cleveland  township,  this  county,  more  than 
four  decades  ago,  has  here  made  his  home  continuously  since  with  the  exception 
of  a few  short  intervals  when  he  leased  his  farm  and  lived  elsewhere.  He  has 
reached  the  Psalmist’s  allotted  span  of  three  score  years  and  ten  and  is  the 
only  survivor  of  the  original  early  settlers  of  his  part  of  the  county.  His  place 
comprises  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land,  on  sections  28  and  29,  town- 
ship 32,  range  7. 

Charles  L.  Smith  was  born  in  Allegheny  county,  New  York,  on  the  9th  of 
June,  1843,  his  parents  being  Schuyler  and  Lydia  Maria  (Ferron)  Smith,  both 
of  whom  passed  away  in  the  Empire  state.  He  spent  the  first  twenty  years  of  his 
life  in  New  York  and  then  came  to  Wisconsin,  here  being  employed  for  four 
years  by  the  firm  of  Shaw  & Bullen,  later  the  Daniel  Shaw  Lumber  Company, 
of  Eau  Claire.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  returned  to  his  native  state. 
In  1872,  however,  he  again  came  to  Wisconsin  and  purchased  eighty  acres  of 
government  land  on  sections  28  and  29  of  what  is  now  the  township  of  Cleveland, 
the  property  lying  in  township  32,  range  7,  of  Chippewa  county.  The  same  year 
he  acquired  an  adjoining  tract  of  forty  acres.  This  place  has  remained  his  home 
continuously  since  with  the  exception  of  a few  short  intervals  during  which  he 
leased  his  farm  and  resided  elsewhere,  his  longest  period  of  absence  being  the 
four  years  which  he  spent  on  the  Pacific  coast.  The  greater  portion  of  his  land 
is  cleared  and  is  under  cultivation.  Ten  or  twelve  acres  of  fine  rock  maple  still 
stand,  comprising  a “sugar  bush’’  from  which  hundreds  of  gallons  of  maple  syrup 
and  quantities  of  sugar  have  been  made.  Twenty  years  ago  a fire  swept  every- 
thing from  the  property  except  the  house.  The  buildings  now  include  a comfort- 
able and  substantial  frame  residence  and  outbuildings  which  are  constructed 
mostly  of  logs.  Mr.  Smith  still  manages  his  affairs  at  the  age  of  seventy  years 
but  leaves  most  of  the  active  work  of  the  fields  to  others,  having  rented  the  farm 
to  his  wife’s  granddaughter  and  her  husband.  When  he  first  took  up  his  abode 
on  this  property  Flambeau  road,  the  only  thoroughfare  in  Cleveland  township, 
had  just  been  laid  out.  There  were  no  horses  in  that  part  of  the  county,  and 
Mr.  Smith  often  went  to  Chippewa  Falls  on  foot.  He  can  recall  many  interest- 
ing incidents  of  pioneer  life  and  has  not  only  witnessed  but  also  aided  in  the 
wonderful  transformation  that  has  here  occurred  as  the  work  of  progress  and 
development  has  been  carried  steadily  forward. 


322 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  New  York,  Mr.  Smith  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Stebbens,  now 
deceased,  by  whom  he  had  two  daughters,  namely : Cora,  the  wife  of  Charles 

S.  Lee,  of  Eau  Claire;  and  Carrie,  the  wife  of  Charles  Olliver,  of  Truax  Prairie. 
For  his  second  wife  he  chose  Mrs.  Sarah  E.  Warded,  a widow. 

.Mr.  Smith  has  been  a lifelong  democrat  and  an  active  worker  in  the  local 
ranks  of  his  party.  He  was  instrumental  in  organizing  Cleveland  township  and 
has  held  various  township  offices,  ever  discharging  his  public  duties  in  a prompt 
and  able  manner.  When  a young  man  of  twenty-five  years  he  became  a Mason 
and  has  since  remained  an  exemplary  representative  of  the  fraternity.  Genial  and 
kindly  in  nature,  he  fully  appreciates  his  obligations  to  his  fellowmen,  and  his 
honorable  principles  and  upright  manhood  have  won  for  him  the  high  regard, 
confidence  and  good-will  of  all  with  whom  he  has  come  in  contact. 


DAYTON  E.  COOK. 

Dayton  E.  Cook  is  engaged  in  the  general  practice  of  law  in  Chippewa  Falls 
and  in  a profession  where  advancement  comes  only  as  a result  of  individual 
merit  and  ability  has  made  rapid  and  steady  progress  and  is  meeting  with  well 
deserved  and  substantial  success.  He  was  born  in  Dane  county,  Wisconsin, 
December  14,  1873,  and  is  a son  of  S.  H.  and  Helen  (Reese)  Cook.  The  father 
has  spent  his  entire  active  life  engaged  in  farming  and  is  now  following  agri- 
cultural pursuits  in  the  vicinity  of  Aberdeen,  South  Dakota.  He  is  a veteran 
of  the  Civil  war,  having  fought  through  the  entire  four  years  of  that  conflict  as 
a member  of  the  Union  army. 

Dayton  E.  Cook  acquired  his  common  school  education  in  the  public  schools 
of  Aberdeen,  South  Dakota,  and  was  graduated  from  the  Aberdeen  high  school 
in  i8qi.  He  afterward  entered  the  University  of  Wisconsin  and  from  that  insti- 
tution was  graduated  with  the  degree  of  LL.  B.  in  1895.  After  a post-graduate 
course  of  one  year  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  here  took  up  the  general  prac- 
tice of  law,  in  which  he  has  since  engaged.  He  has  secured  a large  and  repre- 
sentative patronage,  connecting  him  with  a great  deal  of  important  litigation, 
and  he  has  proved  himself  a strong,  able  and  forceful  practitioner.  He  is  con- 
nected with  business  interests  of  the  city  as  treasurer  of  the  Clark  Grain  & Fuel 
Company  and  in  this  connection  has  won  for  himself  an  enviable  reputation  for 
business  foresight  and  ability. 

At  Lodi,  Wisconsin,  on  the  21st  of  October,  1896,  Mr.  Cook  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Florence  Stanley,  a daughter  of  Daniel  and  Augusta  Stanley. 
The  former  was  a lieutenant  in  the  Union  army  during  the  Civil  war  and  a 
pioneer  farmer  in  the  vicinity  of  Lodi.  His  death  occurred  in  1874  and  his  wife 
survives  him,  making  her  home  in  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cook  have  become 
the  parents  of  three  children : Stanley,  who  died  at  the  age  of  seven  years  and 

is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls;  Mabel,  who  is  a student 
in  the  high  school;  and  Maurice,  also  at  school. 

Fraternally  Mr.  Cook  is  identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fel- 
lows, the  Maccabees  and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs  and  was  for  six  years  district  attorney  for  Chippewa 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


323 


county.  His  personal  characteristics  have  gained  for  him  the  warm  regard  and 
friendship  of  many,  while  in  professional  circles  he  has  attained  that  distinction 
which  is  the  natural  result  of  his  energy  and  ability. 


BERNARD  KRAMSCHUSTER. 

Bernard  Kramschuster  owns  a farm  of  one  hundred  acres  four  miles  north- 
west of  Bloomer  and  another  of  forty  acres  north  of  the  town.  Upon  the  former 
property  he  has  resided  for  the  past  twenty-three  years  and  he  has  been  very  suc- 
cessful in  its  cultivation,  being  classed  today  among  the  able  and  successful  farmers 
of  his  locality.  He  was  born  in  Watertown,  Wisconsin,  in  1866  and  acquired  his 
education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county.  After  laying  aside  his  books 
he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  engaging  in  this  occupation  in  various  parts 
of  Wisconsin  and  Minnesota  until  1890  when  he  settled  in  Bloomer  township, 
this  county,  buying  the  land  which  he  now  owns.  He  has  cleared  all  but  five 
acres  of  his  holdings  and  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  the  place,  neglect- 
ing nothing  which  would  add  to  its  appearance  or  value.  He  engages  in  general 
farming  and  being  practical,  progressive  and  energetic  has  met  with  gratifying 
and  well  deserved  success. 

Mr.  Kramschuster  married  Mrs.  Agnes  Gunderman  and  they  have  become 
the  parents  of  five  children:  Frank,  Kate,  George,  Mary  and  Paul.  Mrs.  Kram- 
schuster has  also  a son,  John,  by  her  former  marriage.  Mr.  Kramschuster  is 
a devout  member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church.  In  politics  he  votes  independ- 
ently and  he  has  rendered  the  township  excellent  service  in  various"  capacities, 
serving  as  township  assessor  and  as  justice  of  the  peace  for  a number  of  years. 
He  is  interested  in  everything  that  pertains  to  the  general  welfare  and  advance- 
ment and  is  esteemed  as  one  of  the  representative  and  substantial  citizens  of  this 
section  of  the  state. 


ALBERT  BUTSCHER. 

Since  1887  Albert  Butscher  has  been  prominently  connected  with  business 
interests  of  Boyd  and  he  now  occupies  a position  of  precedence  in  financial  circles 
as  president  of  the  State  Bank.  He  was  born  in  New  York  city,  April  14,  1853, 
and  is  a son  of  Joseph  F.  and  Margaret  ( Garstacker ) Butscher,  natives  of  Ger- 
many, the  former  born  in  1826  and  the  latter  in  1830.  After  the  parents  emigrated 
to  America  they  settled  in  New  York  where  the  father  engaged  in  the  carpentering 
business  until  1855.  In  that  year  he  moved  to  Wisconsin  and  established  himself 
in  the  mercantile  business  in  Watertown,  continuing  thus  until  his  death  in  1909. 
He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  six  children  : Albert,  Joseph,  Mary,  Ida, 
Annie  and  Theodore. 

Albert  Butscher  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  oL  Watertown 
and  at  the  age  of  fourteen  laid  aside  his  books  and  became  a clerk  in  his  father's 
store.  In  1878  he  went  to  Edson  Center,  Edson  township,  Chippewa  county,  and 


324 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


there  engaged  in  the  mercantile  business  for  himself,  building  up  a large  and  repre- 
sentative patronage.  In  addition  he  established  the  first  cheese  factory  in  the 
county  and  this  he  operated  for  two  years.  At  that  time  the  village  of  Boyd  was 
becoming  a thriving  and  prosperous  trade  center  and  Mr.  Butscher  took  up  his 
residence  there,  opening  a cheese  factory  and  a general  store.  This  he  continued 
until  1903  and  then  disposed  of  his  interests,  forming  the  State  Bank  of  Boyd, 
of  which  he  has  since  been  president.  He  is  known  as  a reliable,  discriminating 
and  able  financier  and  his  work  has  been  the  leading  element  in  the  building  up  of 
a sound  and  conservative  moneyed  institution. 

On  the  9th  of  May,  1882,  in  Addison  township,  Washington  county,  Mr.  But- 
scher married  Miss  Bertha  Weimer,  a daughter  of  Peter  and  Margaret  (Pert- 
schy)  Weimer.  Mr.- and  Mrs.  Butscher  have  four  children:  Chester  A.,  who 

served  in  the  Third  United  States  Cavalry  during  the  -Spanish-American  war 
and  died  in  the  Philippines;  Herbert  J.,  who  is  a bookkeeper  in  his  father’s  bank, 
and  who  married  Miss  Bessie  Nelson,  by  whom  he  has  a daughter,  Doris;  Linda 
G.,  who  became  the  wife  of  John  J.  Bruss,  a hardware  merchant  of  Boyd;  and 
Carl,  who  is  a student  at  Northwestern  college  in  Watertown.  The  family  are 
members  of  the  Lutheran  church. 

Fraternally,  Mr.  Butscher  is  connected  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows  and  he  is  a stanch  republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  It  was  he  who  organ- 
ized the  republican  party  in  the  town  of  Edson  in  1878,  when  the  town  of  Edson 
was  composed  of  what  is  now  the  town  of  Edson,  the  town  of  Delmar,  part  of 
the  town  of  Colburn,  part  of  the  town  of  Sigel,  the  village  of  Boyd  and  the  city 
of  Stanley.  Since  that  time  he  has  held  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsi- 
bility, serving  as  supervisor  of  Boyd  for  four  years,  as  trustee  for  a similar  period 
and  for  two  terms  as  president  of  the  village.  He  is  a director  in  the  .State  Bank 
and  president  of  the  Boyd  Produce  Company  and  his  ability  is  recognized  and 
respected  in  business  circles.  As  a resident  of  Boyd  for  more  than  a quarter 
of  a century,  he  has  been  loyal  in  his  advocacy  of  everything  pertaining  to  the 
welfare  of  the  city  and  has  made  many  substantial  contributions  to  its  develop- 
ment and  progress. 


JOHN  F.  WALLACE. 

Energy,  enterprise  and  initiative,  guided  and  controlled  by  a sound  and  prac- 
tical business  judgment,  have  formed  the  basis  of  the  success  of  John  F.  Wallace, 
and  have  brought  him  today  to  a position  of  prominence  in  business  circles  of 
Stanley  where  since  1911  he  has  been  president  of  the  Stanley  Produce  Company. 
He  was  born  in  Kankakee,  Illinois,  on  the  28th  of  January,  1866,  and  is  a son 
of  William  and  Amanda  (Locke)  Wallace,  natives  of  New  York  state,  the  former 
born  in  1825  and  the  latter  in  1838.  Both  have  passed  away.  In  their  family  were 
the  following  children  : Ella,  Leo,  Laura,  Bessie,  William  J.,  Frank,  Lillian,  Nina, 
Edith,  Cora.  Of  these  Bessie  and  Cora  died  in  infancy. 

John  F.  Wallace  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  school  at  Rock  Falls, 
Wisconsin,  laying  aside  his  books  when  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age.  He  after- 
wards spent  six  winters  in  the  lumber  woods,  working  at  driving  logs  during  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


325 


summers.  In  1889  he  moved  to  Stanley  and  there  became  connected  with  the 
Northwestern  Lumber  Company  with  whom  he  continued  for  ten  years.  He 
afterwards  entered  the  employ  of  W.  W.  Crane  Sons  Company  in  the  warehouse 
business,  but  later  formed  a partnership  with  Edward  F.  Burns.  Together  they 
purchased  the  business  conducted  by  W.  W.  Crane  Sons  Company  and  continued 
to  operate  it  for  one  year,  after  which,  in  1911,  they  incorporated  as  the  Stanley 
Produce  Company.  Of  this  concern  Mr.  Wallace  has  since  been  president,  and 
in  a position  calling  for  energy,  resourcefulness  and  discrimination  has  accom- 
plished a great  deal  of  excellent  and  far-reaching  work. 

On  the  4th  of  December,  1888,  Mr.  Wallace  married  Miss  Hattie  Swan,  a 
daughter  of  James  and  Alice  (Faulkner)  Swan  of  Dunn  county.  The  father  is 
a retired  farmer  and  makes  his  home  at  Bloomer.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wallace  have 
become  the  parents  of  a daughter,  Edith,  who  is  engaged  in  teaching  at  Bloomer. 
Mr.  Wallace  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  is  a democrat  in  his 
political  beliefs.  His  genuine  personal  worth  has  greatly  endeared  him  to  a 
large  circle  of  friends  while  his  ability  has  carried  him  forward  into  important 
relations  with  business  life. 


HERMAN  SCHMOCK. 


Forty-two  years  have  come  and  gone  since  Herman  Schmock  arrived  in  Chip- 
pewa county  and  for  forty  years  he  has  lived  upon  the  farm  which  he  now  occupies 
in  Bloomer  township.  The  place  comprises  a quarter  section  of  land  and  its 
location  within  five  miles  of  Bloomer  makes  the  advantages  of  the  town  easily 
accessible.  The  work  of  clearing  and  developing  the  place  was  accomplished  by 
Mr.  Schmock  who  is  classed  with  the  industrious  and  diligent  farmers  of  his 
community.  He  was  born  in  Germany  and  came  to  the  United  States  in  1871. 
His  father,  William  Schmock,  however,  always  remained  a resident  of  Germany 
and  Herman  Schmock  came  to  the  new  world  with  an  uncle  who  was  one  of  the 
pioneer  settlers  of  this  part  of  the  state.  William  Schmock  was  a harness  maker 
and  merchant  in  his  native  land  and  continued  actively  in  business  there  for  many 
years.  He  married  Dorothy  Rehpfenning  and  they  had  four  children,  Plerman, 
Emil,  Louise  and  Mary.  The  last  three  are  still  residents  of  the  fatherland. 

Herman  Schmock  is  the  only  one  of  the  family  who  ever  came  to  the  Linked 
States.  He  attended  a school  in  his  native  country  and  after  accompanying  his 
uncle  to  the  new  world  continued  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Chippewa  county, 
being  a student  in  district  number  one.  This  acquainted  him  with  the  English 
language  as  well  as  promoted  his  knowledge  of  different  branches  of  learning. 
When  in  Germany  he  had  mastered  the  jewelers'  trade  and  for  a short  time  he 
worked  in  that  line  in  Eau  Claire,  but  in  1873  t°°k  UP  his  abode  upon  the  farm 
which  is  now  his  home.  In  1893  he  and  his  elder  son,  William,  went  to  Germany 
to  visit  their  kinsfolk  there.  Our  subject  was  one  of  the  first  settlers  in  this  section 
and  he  cleared  all  of  the  land  and  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  his  place. 
His  farm  is  now  a well  developed  property  and  the  fields  yield  him  good  harvests 
as  the  years  go  by.  He  follows  progressive  methods  in  his  general  farm  work, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


326 

as  he  also  does  in  the  conduct  of  a dairy  business  which  is  proving  a profitable 
source  of  income  to  him. 

Mr.  Schmock  was  married  to  Miss  Emma  Zubkee  of  Milwaukee,  a graduate 
of  Fox  Lake  Seminary  and  a successful  teacher  in  Dodge  county  for  eleven  years. 
They  became  the  parents  of  five  children:  Matilda,  who  is  living  near  Chetek; 
\\  illiam ; Millard;  and  Mary  and  Dora,  both  deceased.  The  elder  son  is  assisting 
his  father  in  the  operation  and  improvement  of  the  home  farm.  The  younger 
son  is  a graduate  of  Bloomer  high  school ; also  of  the  commercial  department  of 
Valparaiso  University  and  is  now  employed  in  the  Peoples  State  Bank  at  Bloomer. 

Mr.  Schmock  votes  independently  and  has  never  been  active  as  an  office  seeker, 
although  he  served  as  a member  of  the  side  board.  He  belongs  to'  the  German 
Lutheran  church  in  Bloomer  and  honorable  principles  have  actuated  him  in  all 
of  his  life  work  and  in  his  relations  with  his  fellowman.  Long  residence  in  the 
county  has  made  him  widely  known  and  he  has  proven  the  fact  that  , the  way  to 
win  a friend  is  to  be  one. 


SOLOMON  R.  KAISER 

Solomon  R.  Kaiser,  one  of  the  prosperous  and  leading  residents  of  Cadott, 
was  for  a number  of  years  successfully  identified  with  mercantile  interests  here 
as  the  proprietor  of  a general  store  but  has  lived  in  honorable  retirement  since 
1908.  His  birth  occurred  in  Indiana  on  the  3d  of  November,  1845,  his  parents 
being  Andrew  and  Axey  (Harget)  Kaiser,  the  former  born  at  Philadelphia,  Penn- 
sylvania, on  the  30th  of  November,  1803,  and  the  latter  at  Morgantown,  Ohio, 
on  the  9th  of  August,  1811.  Andrew  Kaiser,  an  agriculturist  by  occupation, 
removed  from  his  native  state  to  Indiana  and  in  1859  came  to  Wisconsin,  taking 
up  his  abode  among  the  pioneer  settlers  of  this  state.  His  demise  occurred  on 
the  9th  of  August,  1863,  while  his  wife  was  called  to  her  final  rest  on  the  15th 
of  May,  1885.  Their  children  were  nine  in  number,  namely:  Isaac  IT.,  Jacob  S., 
Harriett  B.,  Daniel  P.,  Mary  IT.,  Andrew  J.,  Elizabeth  IT.,  Solomon  R.  and 
Jerusha  G. 

Solomon  R.  Kaiser  attended  school  at  Sturgis,  Michigan,  until  fourteen  years 
of  age  and  then  accompanied  his  parents  on  their  removal  to  Black  River  Falls, 
Jackson  county,  Wisconsin.  There  he  continued  his  studies  for  one  year  and  sub- 
sequently became  identified  with  the  lumber  business,  working  in  the  woods 
during  the  winter  seasons  for  two  years.  In  1864  he  joined  Company  I,  Fourth 
Wisconsin  Volunteer  Cavalry,  remaining  with  that  command  until  honorably 
discharged  at  Vicksburg,  Mississippi,  in  1865.  His  regiment  was  largely  engaged 
in  scouting  duty  and  took  part  in  several  skirmishes.  Fie  went  with  Grierson  on 
his  memorable  campaign  from  Mobile  to  Vicksburg,  his  regiment  spending  seventy 
days,  in  the  saddle  and  encountering  hardships  and  privations  of  almost  every 
description.  After  returning  from  the  war  Mr.  Kaiser  was  employed  as  a logger 
at  Black  River  Falls  for  five  years  and  subsequently  was  for  three  years  engaged 
in  the  logging  business  on  his  own  account.  In  1872  he  embarked  in  the  mer- 
cantile business  at  Scotts  Valley  and  in  1873  came  to  Cadott,  Wisconsin,  opening 
a general  store  which  he  conducted  continuously  and  successfully  until  1908. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


327 

For  the  past  five  years  lie  has  lived  retired,  spending  the  evening  of  life  in  well 
earned  ease.  Material  success  has  come  to  him  in  gratifying  measure  and  his 
property  holdings  are  now  quite  extensive,  including  his  residence,  the  store, 
the  postoffice  building  and  several  lots  in  the  village,  as  well  as  an  eighty  acre 
farm.  He  is  likewise  a stockholder  and  director  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  at 
Cadott. 

Mr.  Kaiser  has  been  twice  married.  In  1867  he  wedded  Miss  Ellen  A.  Oakes, 
by  whom  he  had  three  children,  as  follows:  Clayton  P.,  Louis  A.  and  Margaret. 

The  wife  and  mother  passed  away  on  the  12th  of  July,  1877,  and  on  the  13th 
of  July,  1882,  at  Hudson,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Kaiser  was  again  married,  his  second 
union  being  with  Miss  Laura  M.  Freeman,  a daughter  of  John  A.  and  Margaret 
(Clinton)  Freeman,  of  Indiana.  By  this  marriage  five  children  were  born, 
namely:  Jay  B.,  whose  demise  occurred  in  1887;  Roy  C.,  who  also  passed  away 
in  that  year ; Ray  S.,  an  electrician  in  the  navy  who  is  employed  on  the  battleship 
Maryland;  Fay  N.,  a school  teacher  by  profession;  and  Harry  L.,  a painter  by 
trade,  and  now  in  the  United  States  Navy. 

In  politics  Mr.  Kaiser  is  a stanch  republican  and  his  fellow  townsmen,  recog- 
nizing his  worth  and  ability,  have  called  him  to  various  positions  of  public  trust. 
He  served  as  clerk  of  Sigel  township  for  two  years,  acted  as  town  chairman  of 
Sigel  for  several  years  and  for  four  years  was  president  of  the  village  of  Cadott. 
For  one  year  he  held  the  office  of  trustee  for  Cadott  and  for  five  years  did  able 
service  in  the  interests  of  the  cause  of  education  as  a member  of  the  school  board. 
He  still  maintains  pleasant  relations  with  his  old  army  comrades  as  a member 
of  George  M.  Potter  Post,  No.  149,  G.  A.  R.,  of  Cadott,  Wisconsin,  and  fraternally 
is  identified  with  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  the  Owls.  Fishing  affords  him 
delight  and  recreation  and  he  is  an  enthusiastic  disciple  of  Izaak  Walton.  While 
acquiring  success  in  business  he  has  also  gained  and  retained  the  respect  and 
honor  of  his  fellowmen  by  his  public  service  and  private  life,  and  all  who  know 
him  feel  honored  by  his  friendship. 


L.  W.  BETHKE. 


L.  W.  Bethke,  proprietor  of  a cigar  manufactory  on  West  Grand  avenue,  in 
Chippewa  Falls,  has  gained  a wide  acquaintance  during  the  twenty-nine  years 
of  his  residence  in  this  county.  He  was  born  in  West  Prussia,  October  21,  186^, 
and  is  a son  of  Emanuel  and  Christine  ( Coder)  Bethke.  The  father  came  from 
Prussia  with  his  family,  in  1868,  and  settled  at  Fall  Creek,  Fan  Claire,  on  a tract 
of  land,  which  was  then  an  undeveloped  wilderness.  There  were  no  roads  in 
the  district  save  the  old  Indian  trails  and  it  required  much  arduous  labor  to  hew 
out  from  the  wilderness  a farm.  However,  Mr.  Bethke  gradually  cleared  his 
land  from  the  timber,  grubbed  up  the  stumps,  plowed  and  planted  his  fields  and 
brought  the  place  to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  His  financial  resources  increased 
until  he  was  in  possession  of  a comfortable  competence  that  enabled  him  to  give 
to  his  family  not  only  the  necessities  but  some  of  the  luxuries  of  life.  Lie  passed 
away  October  12,  1881,  at  the  age  of  fifty-three  years,  having  survived  his  wife 
but  ten  days.  They  were  buried  in  the  Protestant  Fall  Creek  cemetery. 


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PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


L.  W.  Bethke  had  the  opportunity  of  attending  school  for  only  about  three 
months  during  his  entire  life,  and  while  he  is  now  a well  informed  man,  his 
knowledge  has  been  acquired  through  observation,  reading  and  experience.  From 
an  early  age  he  had  to  assist  his  father  on  the  farm,  being  the  eldest  son  in  the 
family.  He  early  became  familiar  with  the  difficult  task  of  clearing  and  culti- 
vating the  land  and  his  youth  was  one  of  earnest,  persistent  toil.  At  length  he 
left  home  and  started  out  in  life  on  his  own  account,  working  as  a farm  hand  for 
thirteen  years.  He  later  came  to  Chippewa  Falls,  learned  the  trade  of  cigar- 
making and  eventually  embarked  in  the  business  which  he  is  now  conducting. 
He  established  his  cigar  manufactory  in  1892  and  now  has  a well  equipped  plant, 
in  which  he  furnishes  employment  to  a large  number  of  workmen,  thus  meeting 
the  demands  of  a growing  trade. 

Mr.  Bethke  was  married  in  Chippewa  Falls,  July  20,  1890,  to  Miss  Anna 
Wirth,  a daughter  of  Conrad  and  Elizabeth  Wirth.  the  former  a cabinet-maker 
of  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  took  up  his  abode  about  1880.  He  died  in  1900, 
while  his*  wife  passed  away  in  Switzerland.  Flis  remains  are  interred  in  the 
cemetery  in  Auburn  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bethke  became  the  parents  of  four 
children:  Ruth,  who  died  at  the  age  of  eighteen  years  and  six  months,  on  the 

18th  of  February,  1911,  and  was  laid  to  rest  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery;  Emanuel, 
who  is  employed  as  car  laborer  in  the  Irving  yards;  George  and  Annette,  who 
are  attending  school.  The  family  home  is  at  No.  327  West  Spruce  street,  which 
property  Mr.  Bethke  purchased. 

In  politics  our  subject  is  independent,  yet  is  a public-spirited  citizen,  interested 
in  the  general  welfare.  Fraternally  he  is  connected  with  the  Knights  of  the  Mac- 
cabees and  is  a trustee  of  Lodge  No.  (56,  at  Chippewa  Falls.  He  is  also  con- 
nected with  the  advisory  committee  of  the  Fraternal  Reserve  Association,  and 
his  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Presbyterian  church.  He  may  truly  be  called  a 
self-made  man,  for  he  has  worked  his  way  steadily  upward  and  whatever  success 
he  has  achieved  and  enjoyed  is  the  direct  reward  of  earnest,  persistent  labor. 


A.  J.  EDMINSTER. 

A.  J.  Edminster  is  well  known  in  financial  circles  of  the  county  as  cashier  of 
the  Bank  of  Holcombe.  In  connection  with  the  banking  business  he  has  other 
important  interests  and  holdings  and  is  accounted  one  of  the  representative  busi- 
ness men  of  his  section  of  the  state.  He  was  born  in  Portage,  Wisconsin,  in 
1863,  a son  of  James  Edminster,  who  was  a native  of  Maine,  but  came  to  Wiscon- 
sin at  an  early  period  of  its  development.  He  engaged  in  lumbering  on  the  Wis- 
consin river  and  later  followed  the  same  pursuit  in  Clark  county,  and  subsequently 
in  Chippewa  county,  where  his  death  occurred.  His  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden 
name  of  Phcebe  Pierce,  was  born  in  the  state  of  New  York,  and  is  now  living 
with  her  son  A.  J.  Edminster. 

After  pursuing  a public-school  education  and  thus  qualifying  for  life’s  prac- 
tical and  responsible  duties,  A.  J.  Edminster  at  the  age  of  seventeen  or  eighteen 
years  engaged  in  lumbering  and  logging,  continuing  in  the  business  in  this  sec- 
tion of  the  state  until  the  timber  supply  was  exhausted.  He  also  started  a store 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


329 


at  his  first  farm  between  what  is  now  Cornell  and  Holcombe,  and  after  the  coming 
of  the  railroad,  moved  his  store  fo  Hoicombe.  When  the  village  of  Cornell  was 
started  he  with  one  of  his  faithful  clerks,  Raymond  Cleaves,  and  his  cousin, 
Philip  Runkel,  erected  a store  in  that  village  and  it  is  still  running  in  the  name 
of  A.  J.  Edminster  & Co.  He  won  success  in  his  undertakings  and  is  now  classed 
as  one  of  the  men  of  affluence  in  Chippewa  county.  He  has  made  extensive  and 
judicious  investments,  so  that  his  holdings  return  him  a gratifying  annual  income. 
He  occupies  the  position  of  cashier  of  the  Bank  of  Holcombe,  a state  bank, 
which  is  capitalized  for  ten  thousand  dollars  and  has  a surplus  of  three  thousand 
dollars.  Of  this  bank  E.  H.  Burnham  is  president  and  a general  banking  business 
is  conducted,  the  success  of  which  is  attributable  in  substantial  measure  to  the 
efforts  and  ability  of  A.  J.  Edminster.  He  also  owns  considerable  timber  land 
and  is  engaged  in  the  real-estate  business,  having  negotiated  a number  of  im- 
portant realty  transfers. 

Mr.  Edminster  was  married  in  Chippewa  Falls  to  Miss  Nellie  Loiselle,  a 
native  of  Chippewa  county  and  a daughter  of  Etienne  Loiselle,  a Frenchman, 
who  is  now  eighty-one  years  of  age  and  makes  his  home  with  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Edminster,  who  occupy  a beautiful  residence  in  Holcombe.  Hospitality  there 
reigns  supreme  and  its  good  cheer  is  enjoyed  by  their  many  friends.  Mr.  Edmin- 
ster has  been  termed  a prince  of  good  fellows.  He  is  liberal,  generous,  kindly 
in  his  opinions,  loyal  in  his  friendships  and  therefore  popular. 


TOM  FOSTER. 

Tom  Foster,  proprietor  of  the  Star  Theatre  in  Stanley,  was  born  in  Sussex, 
England,  May  28,  1870,  a son  of  John  B.  and  Nellie  (Savage)  Foster,  also 
natives  of  that  locality,  both  born  in  1835.  The  father  was  a civil  assessor  and 
surveyor  of  taxes  in  England  until  1903,  when  he  retired  from  active  life.  He 
and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  eight  children,  George,  Maggie,  Tom,  Percy, 
Gertrude,  Maid,  Daisy  and  Fred,  of  whom  the  first  named  served  as  sergeant  of 
the  Volunteer  Mounted  Infantry  in  the  Boer  war. 

Tom  Foster  attended  school  in  England  until  he  was  thirteen  years  of  age 
and  then  went  to  sea,  becoming  connected  with  the  White  Star,  Aberdeen  line. 
At  the  end  of  four  years  he  came  to  America  and  settled  on  a farm  in  Iowa  which 
he  cultivated  for  three  and  one-half  years.  He  then  moved  to  Minneapolis, 
where  he  spent  three  years  in  charge  of  the  Minnetonka  Yacht  Club,  returning 
in  1893  to  Iowa.  For  three  years  he  lived  upon  a rented  farm  in  that  state  and 
upon  the  expiration  of  that  time  moved  to  Rusk  county,  Wisconsin,  where  he 
engaged  in  farming  until  1909.  In  that  year  he  turned  his  attention  to  the  real- 
estate  business  in  Ladysmith.  During  this  time  he  made  a trip  to  England,  Scot- 
land and  Wales  in  the  interests  of  the  department  of  immigration  but  he  met  with 
great  difficulties  in  this  work  owing  to  the  fact  that  the  British  government  offered 
such  great  inducements  to  settlers  in  Canada.  When  he  severed  his  connection 
with  the  immigration  department  Mr.  Foster  came  to  Stanley  and  here  opened 
the  Star  moving  picture  theatre,  the  only  place  of  amusement  in  the  town.  He 
has  met  with  most  excellent  success  in  the  conduct  of  this  enterprise  and  is  num- 
bered among  the  representative  and  substantial  men  of  the  community.  He  was 


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for  two  years  vice  president  of  the  State  Moving  Picture  League  and  he  keeps 
in  touch  with  everything  connected  with  his  line  of  business. 

In  Minneapolis,  on  April  15,  1893,  Mr.  Foster  married  Miss  Nellie  Porter, 
a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  Porter,  the  former  a pioneer  settler  in  Iowa 
and  veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  He  is  at  present  a well  known  farmer  near  Cresco, 
Iowa.  Mrs.  Foster  passed  away  in  1909,  leaving  five  children,  Percy,  Frank, 
Madge,  Reggy  and  Pearl.  On  the  10th  of  October,  1909,  in  Montreal,  Quebec, 
Mr.  Foster  married  Mrs.  Nettie  Bassett,  of  New  York. 

Mr.  Foster  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  order  and  with  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  he  is  a stockholder  in  the  Wisconsin 
National  Life  Insurance  Company  of  Oshkosh.  His  political  allegiance  is  given 
to  the  republican  party  and  while  a resident  of  Rusk  county  he  served  for  four 
years  as  chairman  of  Big  Bend  township  and  for  two  years  as  president  of  the 
Rusk  County  Fair  Association.  He  was  also  a delegate  to  Springfield,  Illinois, 
in  charge  of  the  fair  exhibits  from  northern  Wisconsin  and  he  still  takes  a great 
interest  in  this  work.  In  all  of  his  business  dealings  he  has  been  thoroughly 
reliable  and  in  matters  of  citizenship  helpful  and  progressive,  giving  his  aid  and 
influence  to  many  movements  for  the  public  good. 


FRANCIS  C.  BABBITT. 

Although  past  seventy  years  of  age,  Francis  C.  Babbitt  still  actively  looks 
after  his  extensive  farming  interests,  being  one  of  the  largest  landowners  of 
Chippewa  county.  He  holds  title  to  nine  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  four  hundred 
and  eighty  of  which  are  under  cultivation,  and  gives  much  attention  to  stock- 
raising  and  dairy  farming.  Francis  C.  Babbitt  was  born  in  Woodstock,  Windsor 
county,  Vermont,  December  28,  1841,  a son  of  Isaac  W.  and  Lucy  (Atwood) 
Babbitt  the  former  born  in  Barnard,  Vermont,  in  1818,  and  the  latter  in  Massa- 
chusetts in  1819.  The  father  during  his  active  life  followed  agricultural  pur- 
suits and  passed  away  March  27,  1889,  his  wife  surviving  him  for  about  ten 
years,  her  death  occurring  in  1899.  In  their  family  were  five  children,  Amanda, 
Ellen,  George,  Francis  C.  and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  The  family  moved  to 
Cleveland,  Ohio,  in  1854  and  our  subject  was  largely  educated  in  that  city.  Fie 
remained  and  worked  in  Cleveland  until  1867,  when  he  came  to  Wisconsin,  set- 
tling in  Sigel  township,  Chippewa  county.  Here  he  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  on  section  29,  which  he  kept  for  about  eight  years  and  then  sold.  He 
engaged  in  the  logging  business  for  two  years  and  then  purchased  another  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  2,  township  29,  range  6 west,  which  is  part 
of  the  farm  upon  which  he  now  resides.  Gradually  he  extended  the  boundaries 
of  his  property,  now  owning  nine  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  four  hundred  and 
eighty  of  which  is  under  cultivation.  He  has,  however,  cleared  all  of  the  land  and 
has  done  this  almost  entirely  by  himself.  The  land  is  located  on  sections  1 and  2, 
township  29,  and  section  35,  township  30.  Mr.  Babbitt  keeps  about  seventy  head 
of  cattle,  mostly  shorthorns,  and  five  horses.  He  specializes  in  dairy  farming 
and  has  been  very  successful  along  that  line.  When  Mr.  Babbitt  and  family  came 
to  Sigel  township  they  spent  the  first  night  in  a most  primitive  log  cabin,  it  rain- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


331 


mg  so  heavily  that  the  roof  gave  but  poor  protection.  Mr.  Babbitt  has  always 
said  that  a better  alternative  would  have  been  to  stay  outside  instead  of  in. 

Mr.  Babbitt  married  Miss  Mary  Gorham,  a daughter  of  James  A.  and  Mary 
A.  (Smith)  Gorham,  both  of  whom  passed  away  in  1876.  The  father  for  many 
years  was  a merchant  at  Cleveland,  Ohio,  and  his  daughter  Mary  was  born  there, 
March  11,  1863.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Babbitt  became  the  parents  of  nine  children. 
Ellen  is  now  Mrs.  McConville  and  has  five  children.  Frank  married  Laura 
Phillips,  by  whom  he  has  one  child  and  farms  in  Delmar  township.  Isaac  first 
married  Anna  Hogan,  who  died,  and  he  subsequently  wedded  a Miss  Wedon,  by 
whom  he  has  one  child.  He  is  a successful  farmer  in  Idaho.  Grace  married 
Jacob  Braun,  a merchant  of  Appleton,  Wisconsin,  by  whom  she  has  two  children. 
Julian  married  Ellen  McTauge  who  bore  him  three  children.  He  and  his  family 
live  at  Boyd,  Wisconsin,  where  Julian  Babbitt  is  engaged  in  the  contracting  and 
building  business.  Josephine  married  Fred  Etten,  a farmer  of  Edson  township, 
by  whom  she  has  six  children.  Benjamin,  who  farms  in  Delmar  township,  mar- 
ried Mabel  Phillips,  by  whom  he  has  five  children.  Louisa  married  Adolph 
Milling,  who  farms  in  Edson  township,  and  they  have  two  children.  Wellman, 
the  youngest  of  the  family,  is  also  married  and  makes  his  home  in  Idaho. 

Mr.  Babbitt  is  one  of  the  most  successful  agriculturists  and  stock-raisers  of 
Chippewa  county,  where  he  has  done  much  toward  progress  and  advancement. 
His  political  convictions  lead  him  to  the  support  of  the  republican  party.  For 
nine  years  he  has  served  as  chairman  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  Sigel  township ; 
for  twenty  years  he  has  been  a member  of  the  school  board,  and  for  two  years 
a township  supervisor.  He  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church.  Mr.  Babbitt  is 
the  oldest  living  charter  member  of  Neuberg  lodge,  No.  379,  F.  & A.  M.,  of  Cleve- 
land which  was  organized  in  1868.  Mr.  Babbitt  enjoys  in  full  measure  the  good 
will  and  confidence  of  all  who  know  him  and  is  one  of  the  most  highly  respected 
citizens  in  Chippewa  county.  Success  has  come  to  him  as  the  result  of  incessant 
labor  and  practical,  modern  methods,  and  such  prosperity  as  is  his  is  highly  mer- 
ited. Not  only  has  Mr.  Babbitt  attained  personal  success,  but  he  has  done  much 
toward  advancement  in  Sigel  township  and  honor  is  due  him  for  the  efforts  which 
he  has  made  along  various  lines  in  the  interests  of  the  general  public. 


WILLIAM  NABOB. 

The  agricultural  interests  of  Chippewa  county  find  a worthy  and  successful 
representative  in  William  Nabor,  who  owns  and  operates  a farm  of  one  hundred 
and  ninety  acres  on  section  1,  Tilden  township.  He  is  a native  son  of  the  county, 
having  been  born  here  on  the  25th  of  December,  1868.  His  parents,  Fred  and 
Julia  (Torno)  Nabor,  are  both  deceased,  the  father  passing  away  on  the  20th 
of  December,  1911,  and  the  mother  on  the  26th  of  May,  1899.  Their  remains 
were  interred  in  the  Eagle  Point  cemetery.  They  had  gained  many  friends  here 
and  their  demise  was  the  occasion  of  deep  and  widespread  regret. 

William  Nabor  attended  the  schools  of  this  county  in  the  acquirement  of  an 
education  until  seventeen  years  of  age  and  after  putting  aside  his  text-books 
assisted  his  father  in  the^ operation  of  the  home  farm  until  the  latter’s  death.  At 


332 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


that  time  he  came  into  possession  of  the  property,  comprising  one  hundred  and 
ninety  acres  on  section  i,  Tilden  township,  where  he  has  since  been  engaged  in 
mixed  farming.  In  connection  with  the  cultivation  of  the  cereals  best  adapted 
to  soil  and  climate  he  devotes  considerable  attention  to  live  stock,  keeping  about 
eight  horses,  thirty  cattle,  forty-eight  hogs  and  thirteen  sheep.  He  erected  the 
residence  and  other  buildings  which  adorn  the  place  and  is  well  entitled  to  recog- 
nition among  the  substantial  and  representative  agriculturists  of  his  community. 

April  6,  1899,  at  Eagle  Point,  Mr.  Nabor  was  joined  in  wedlock  to  Miss  Martha 
Polanski,  a daughter  of  Lewis  Polanski,  of  Eagleton,  Chippewa  county.  Our  sub- 
ject and  his  wife  now  have  three  children:  Fred,  Lewis  and  Arnold.  In  his 

political  views  Mr.  Nabor  is  a stanch  republican,  while  his  religious  faith  is  that 
of  the  Lutheran  church.  Fraternally  he  is  identified  with  the  Masons.  His 
entire  life  has  been  spent  within  the  borders  of  Chippewa  county  and  he  enjoys 
the  respect  and  confidence  of  all  with  whom  business  or  social  relations  have 
brought  him  in  contact. 


MRS.  EMMA  WOODRUFF. 

Mrs  Emma  Woodruff,  the  widow  of  A.  N.  Woodruff,  has  spent  practically 
her  entire  life  in  Chippewa  county,  being  brought  here  by  her  parents  in  1868, 
when  but  one  year  old.  She  successfully  followed  the  profession  of  teaching 
in  Chippewa  Falls  for  about  thirteen  years  and  now  owns  and  resides  upon  a 
valuable  farm  of  four  hundred  acres  on  section  8,  Eagle  Point  township.  Her 
birth  occurred  on  the  13th  of  July,  1867,  her  parents  being  Abel  and  Agnes 
(McMaster)  Sellers,  the  former  born  on  the  28th  of  March,  1837,  and  the 
latter  on  the  10th  of  June,  1840.  They  have  reached  the  ages  of  seventy-six 
and  seventy-three  years  respectively  and  make  their  home  with  their  daughter, 
Mrs.  Woodruff.  The  period  of  their  residence  here  covers  forty-five  years  and 
the  circle  of  their  friends  and  acquaintances  is  very  large.  The  Sellers  and 
Woodruff  families  are  among  the  oldest  in  the  county. 

Emma  Sellers  acquired  her  early  education  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  subse- 
quently attended  the  State  Normal  School  at  River  Falls,  Wisconsin,  until  nine- 
teen years  of  age.  She  then  taught  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  Falls 
for  several  years,  imparting  clearly  and  readily  to  others  the  knowledge  which 
she  had  acquired.  On  the  10th  of  June,  1896,  she  gave  her  hand  in  marriage 
to  A.  N.  Woodruff,  who  was  born  on  the  12th  of  March,  1854,  a son  of  James 
and  Alzina  (Joslin)  Woodruff,  the  former  of  whom  died  here,  July  19,  1898. 
His  widow  is  now  residing  in  Gibbon,  Nebraska. 

A.  N.  Woodruff  attended  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county  until  a youth 
of  eighteen  years  and  subsequently  assisted  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the 
home  farm  until  twenty-five  years  of  age,  when  he  took  possession  of  the 
property  which  is  now  known  as  the  Woodruff  place.  He  was  successfully 
identified  with  general  agricultural  pursuits  throughout  his  entire  business  career, 
leaving  his  widow  a rich  and  productive  farm  of  four  hundred  acres  on  section 
8,  Eagle  Point  township.  His  demise  occurred  on  the  22d  of  October,  1908, 
and  his  remains  were  interred  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery  at  Chippewa  Falls. 


MR.  AND  AND  MRS.  A.  N.  WOODRUFF  AND  FAMILY 


Mrs.  Alzina  Joslin  Woodruff,  Mrs.  Minerva  Joslin  Stowell,  Mrs.  Lucia  Josl 
James  H.  Woodruff,  Mrs.  Belinda  Joslin  Waterman,  Joel  Waterman 


% 


J ?:  t'j 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


337 


He  gave  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  held  several  school 
offices,  ably  serving  the  cause  of  education  for  a number  of  years.  Fraternally 
he  was  identified  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Foresters. 

Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Woodruff  were  born  five  children,  namely:  Vivian  A., 
Ella  M.,  Truman  B.,  Lloyd  A.  and  Leslie  C.  All  are  still  at  home.  The  family 
home  is  one  which  was  built  by  the  Woodruffs  in  1872  and  is  still  a handsome 
and  attractive  residence.  Mrs.  Woodruff  is  a devoted  and  consistent  member 
of  the  Methodist  church,  exemplifying  its  teachings  in  her  daily  life.  Her 
many  excellent  traits  of  heart  and  mind  have  won  her  the  high  esteem  and 
friendship  of  all  with  whom  she  has  come  in  contact. 


HENRY  McCANN. 

A farm  of  three  hundred  and  sixty  acres  situated  seven  miles  southeast  of 
Bloomer  is  the  well  developed  property  of  Henry  McCann.  The  place  presents 
a neat  and  thrifty  appearance  and  indicates  the  careful  supervision  and  practical 
methods  of  the  owner  who  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying.  Mr.  McCann 
has  been  a life  long  resident  of  this  county,  his  birth  having  occurred  at  Jim 
Falls  on  the  eleventh  of  March,  1866.  His  father,  Dan  McCann,  was  a native 
of  Ohio  and  became  one  of  the  pioneer  settlers  of  Chippewa  County.  He  made 
his  way  to  Wisconsin  when  a young  man  of  twenty-one  years  and  here  engaged 
in  farming  and  in  the  lumber  business.  He  made  his  home  at  Jim  Falls  for  a 
number  of  years  but  died  in  Chippewa  Falls  on  the  eighth  of  November,  1890. 
He  had  reached  a ripe  old  age,  having  been  born  on  the  first  of  January,  1816. 
It  was  in  1837  that  he  arrived  in  this  county  finding  a district  largely  undeveloped 
and  unimproved.  Much  of  the  native  timber  was  still  standing.  Chippewa  Falls 
had  not  been  founded  and  there  was  no  house  on  this  side  of  Eau  Claire.  Mr. 
McCann  was  accompanied  by  his  two  brothers  and  they  became  actively  identified 
with  the  improvement  of  the  county.  They  built  the  first  Badger  Mills  and  were 
among  the  pioneers  in  the  milling  business.  They  had  a hand  saw  and  manufac- 
tured much  of  the  first  lumber  used  in  the  county.  As  the  years  passed  Dan 
McCann  bore  his  full  share  in  the  work  of  general  development  and  he  lived  to 
see  notable  changes  in  the  county.  He  married  Margaret  LaPoint  a native  of 
Canada,  the  wedding  being  celebrated  at  Prairie  du  Chien.  Mrs.  McCann,  who 
was  born  in  1821,  passed  away  October  4,  1907,  at  Chippewa  Falls. 

Henry  McCann,  who  was  one  of  a family  of  sixteen  children,  pursued  his 
education  in  the  schools  of  his  native  town.  Throughout  much  of  his  life  he  has 
followed  farming  and  until  the  last  four  years  has  devoted  the  winter  months 
to  lumbering  and  logging.  He  took  up  his  abode  upon  his  present  farm  in  1902 
and  has  made  all  of  the  improvements  upon  the  place.  It  is  an  attractive  and 
well  kept  property  and  he  has  some  of  the  best  farming  buildings  in  Eagle  Point 
township.  He  uses  the  k improved  machinery  to  carry  on  the  work  of  the 
fields  and  in  addition  to  raising  the  crops  best  adapted  to  the  soil  and  climate  he 
also  conducts  a dair>  business  keeping  a number  of  cows  for  this  purpose. 

Mr.  McCann  was  married  June  24,  1889,  to  Miss  Mary  Kirchner  of  Jim  Falls 
and  they  became  the  parents  of  seven  children,  but  Bessie,  the  second  in  order  of 

Vol.  11—18 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


338 

birth,  and  Ruth,  the  fourth,  are  now  deceased.  Those  still  living  are  Arthur,  Alan, 
Walter,  Jessie  and  Archie.  The  family  are  well  known  in  their  section  of  the 
county  and  have  an  extensive  circle  of  warm  friends. 

In  politics  Mr.  McCann  is  a democrat,  active  and  prominent  in  the  party  and 
in  1910  was  elected  to  the  office  of  county  sheriff,  which  position  he  capably  filled 
for  one  term.  He  was  chairman  of  the  town  for  two  years  and  filled  the  office 
of  supervisor  for  ten  years.  He  was  also  vice  president  of  the  school  board  and 
for  fifteen  years  was  school  clerk.  The  cause  of  education  has  ever  found  in 
him  a warm  and  helpful  friend  and  in  the  discharge  of  his  official  duties  he  has 
ever  been  prompt,  faithful  and  reliable.  He  holds  membership  with  the  Knights 
of  Pythias  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  is  a consistent  member  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal church.  He  lends  his  aid  to  the  betterment  of  the  community  along  material, 
intellectual,  political  and  moral  lines  and  his  worth  is  quickly  acknowledged 
wherever  he  is  known.  Success  has  come  to  him  as  a reward  of  earnest  and 
enterprising  efforts  and  high  regard  is  given  him  in  recognition  of  a well  spent 
life. 


FRED  L.  MUNROE. 

The  name  of  Munroe  has  long  been  honored  in  Chippewa  county,  for  members 
of  this  family  have  for  many  years  been  intimately  connected  with  the  agricultural, 
financial  and  commercial  development  in  their  district.  F'red  L.  Munroe  was 
born  in  Marquette  county,  Wisconsin,  January  17,  1869,  a son  of  James  H.  Mun- 
roe, who  was  born  in  Vermont,  town  of  Bolton,  in  1837.  The  father  is  a retired 
merchant  and  now  resides  at  Cadott.  More  extended  mention  is  made  of  him 
in  another  part  of  this  work.  He  retired  from  active  business  cares  in  1894,  but 
is  still  president  of  the  State  Bank  of  Cadott,  having  come  there  as  a pioneer 
in  1881.  He  has  always  been  active  in  promoting  the  growth  and  advancement 
of  the  eastern  part  of  Chippewa  county  and  is  a highly  respected  citizen  of  Cadott. 
The  mother  of  Fred  L.  Munroe,  Mrs.  Phebe  J.  Munroe,  was  born  in  New  York 
in  1837  and  died  in  1905.  In  their  family  were  four  children,  Cora  B.,  Arthur 
J.,  Fred  L.  and  Alice  E.  Cora  B.  Munroe  married  Edward  Griffin,  a mill  fore- 
man, and  they  have  two  children,  James  M.  and  Martha  J.  They  live  in  the  state 
of  Washington.  Arthur  J.  is  also  married  and  is  connected  with  sawmilling  in 
Florida.  Alice  E.  married  Samuel  G.  Warner,  a merchant  at  Stanbery,  Wisconsin. 

Fred  L.  Munroe  was  one  of  the  first  two  graduates  of  the  Cadott  high  school, 
the  other  being  a young  lady.  Fie  graduated  in  1886  and  then  became  a clerk 
in  his  father’s  store,  remaining  for  three  and  a half  years  in  that  capacity  and 
working  on  a commission  basis.  He  then  bought  a half  interest  in  the  enterprise 
and  after  three  years  acquired  the  remainder.  He  operated  the  store  under  his 
own  name  until  1906,  when  he  sold  out.  In  1896  he  also  started  a private  bank 
in  the  store  and  continued  same  until  1903,  when  he  incorporated  the  institution 
as  the  State  Bank  of  Cadott,  with  James  H.  Munroe,  his  father,  as  president; 
F.  J.  Lavelle,  vice  president,  and  himself  as  cashier.  The  capital  stock  was  seven 
thousand  dollars.  Mr.  Munroe  is  progressive  and  well  versed  in  financial  and 
commercial  methods,  carefully  guiding  this  institution  and  assuring  it  of  success. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


339 


After  he  had  conducted  the  bank  about  five  years,  he  built  in  1900  a new  building 
to  replace  the  old  store  which  his  father  had  erected  in  1881.  Mr.  Munroe,  of 
this  review,  also  built  the  first  cheese  factory  m Sigel  township,  in  1893,  and 
operated  it  for  eighteen  years,  for  eight  years  as  a cheese  factory  only  and  for 
ten  years  as  a cheese  and  butter  factory.  He  continued  along  that  line  until 
1911,  when  he  sold  out  to  good  advantage. 

September  26,  1894,  Air.  Munroe  married  Miss  Hattie  St.  Louis,  a daughter 
of  Thomas  and  Jennie  (Renaud)  St.  Louis,  of  Appleton,  Wisconsin,  the  cere- 
mony taking  place  at  Cadott.  Of  this  union  one  daughter  has  been  born,  Marjorie. 
The  parents  of  Mrs.  Munroe  came  to  Cadott  in  1892,  the  father  being  a millwright 
by  profession.  They  now  live  in  Missouri. 

Politically  Mr.  Munroe  is  a republican,  and  although  participation  in  the 
political  life  of  the  district  should  be  a tradition  with  him,  his  father  having  held 
about  all  the  county  offices,  Mr.  Munroe  has  never  aspired  to  nor  sought  public 
office.  He  devotes  most  of  his  time  to  his  own  important  interests,  and  besides 
being  a director  and  the  cashier  of  the  State  Bank  of  Cadott  he  is  a stockholder 
and  director  also  in  the  State  Bank  of  Holcombe.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of 
the  Presbyterian  church,  which  he  attends.  Fraternally  he  is  well  known,  belong- 
ing to  the  Odd  Fellows,  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America,  the  Owls  and  the 
E.  F.  U.  Mr.  Munroe  enjoys  high  prestige  as  a merchant  and  banker  in  Cadott 
and  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  able  and  shrewd  business  men  of  his  town. 
He  is  highly  respected  wherever  known  and  has  made  many  friends  in  Cadott, 
where  he  or  his  father  have  continued  in  business  for  more  than  thirty  years. 
Not  only  has  he  attained  individual  prosperity,  but  his  career  has  been  a factor 
in  the  general  progress  of  the  section,  and  he  has  been  a contributing  factor  toward 
making  possible  the  prosperous  conditions  which  are  now  generally  enjoyed  in 
his  locality. 


EDWARD  WANISH. 

Edward  Wanish,  engaging  in  general  farming,  stock-raising  and  dairying 
upon  one  hundred  and  seven  acres  of  land  on  section  36,  Sigel  township,  was 
born  in  Green  Bay,  Wisconsin,  October  12,  1874,  a son  of  Anton  and  Jessie 
(Capers)  Wanish.  The  father  was  torn  in  Manitowoc  county,  this  state,  and 
after  reaching  manhood  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  an  occupation  which 
he  still  follows  being  now  a resident  of  Glenmore  township.  Brown  county.  The 
mother  is  a native  of  Bohemia.  They  became  the  parents  of  seven  children : 
Edward,  Joseph,  Mary,  Annie  and  Frank,  twins,  Emma  and  James. 

Edward  Wanish  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Brown  county, 
attending  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he 
worked  at  carpentering  until  1901  and  in  that  year  began  farming,  buying  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  30,  township  28,  this  county.  He  afterward 
sold  this  tract  and  bought  another  similar  in  extent,  this  land  lying  on  section 
31,  township  28,  range  6 west.  After  living  upon  this  a short  time  he  again 
disposed  of  his  holdings  and  then  purchased  the  farm  upon  which  he  has  since 
resided.  This  is  located  on  section  36.  township  29,  range  6 west  and  comprises 


340 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


one  hundred  and  seven  acres  of  choice  land.  Mr.  Wanish  has  made  excellent 
improvements  upon  it  and  has  been  very  successful  in  its  cultivation,  his  farming, 
dairying  and  stock-raising  interests  being  extensive  and  important.  He  raises  all 
kinds  of  grain  and  feeds  twelve  head  of  cattle,  keeping  also  six  horses.  In 
addition  to  this  he  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  at  Boyd  and  his 
ability  is  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 

In  Glenmore  township.  Brown  county,  on  the  1 8th  of  January,  1899,  Mr. 
Wanish  married  Miss  Mary  Fedler,  a daughter  of  Wenzel  and  Katherine  (Kad- 
lets)  Fedler,  the  former  a large  farmer  and  cheese  maker  in  that  locality.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Wanish  have  become  the  parents  of  six  children:  Clara,  John,  deceased, 
Helen,  Havey,  Alice  and  William.  The  parents  are  members  of  the  St.  Joseph's 
Catholic  church  at  Boyd  and  Mr.  Wanish  belongs  to  Z.  C.  B.  J.  of  Green  Bay, 
Wisconsin.  He  votes  independently  and  is  interested  in  public  affairs  although 
not  active  as  an  office  seeker.  Throughout  his  section  of  the  county  he  is  recog- 
nized as  a prosperous  farmer  and  a representative  citizen  and  he  commands 
the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  know  him. 


THEODORE  HEITING. 

Theodore  Heiting,  president  of  the  Stanley  Woodenware  Company,  and 
by  virtue  of  this  position  and  the  force  of  his  ability  and  energy,  one  of  the 
leading  business  men  of  the  city,  was  born  in  Hollentown,  Wisconsin,  May  15, 
1872.  He  is  a son  of  John  and  Johanna  (Airing)  Heiting,  natives  of  Holland, 
the  former  born  in  1830  and  the  latter  in  1840.  The  parents  came  to  Calumet 
county  this  state  in  1870,  and  there  the  father  still  resides,  having  survived  his 
wife  since  1889.  In  their  family  were  nine  children:  John,  Henry,  Barney, 

Antone,  Theodore,  Frank,  Joseph,  Annie  and  Theresa. 

Theodore  Heiting  acquired  his  education  in  the  Hollentown  district  school, 
laying  aside  his  books  when  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward  worked 
upon  his  father’s  farm  until  he  was  seventeen  and  then  engaged  in  agricultural 
pursuits  in  the  employ  of  others,  until  he  was  twenty-five,  at  which  time  he  moved 
to  Clark  county.  In  partnership  with  his  brother,  Frank,  he  purchased  there,  one 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land,  and  this  they  farmed  for  five  years.  At 
the  end  of  that  time  they  disposed  of  their  holdings  and  turned  their  attention 
to  business,  erecting  a cheese  box  factory  in  Stanley.  They  incorporated  this 
under  the  name  of  Stanley  Woodenware  Company,  with  the  following  officers: 
Frank  Heiting,  president;  Theodore  Heiting,  vice  president;  Nels  Stahlhein, 
secretary;  and  Joseph  Walsdorf,  treasurer.  After  three  years  Mr.  Heiting  of 
this  review  purchased  Mr.  Stalhein’s  interest  and  was  made  president  of  the 
concern,  a position  which  he  still  occupies.  He  bought  his  brother  Frank’s  stock 
in  1912  and  the  officers  of  the  company  are  now  as  follows:  Theodore  Heiting, 

president  and  secretary ; and  Joseph  Walsdorf,  vice  president  and  treasurer. 
The  company  is  one  of  the  most  prominent  of  its  kind  in  this  part  of  Wisconsin 
and  the  business  it  controls  is  growing  rapidly,  for  it  is  conducted  along  modern 
and  progressive  lines  and  its  policy  is  at  all  times  straightforward  and  honor- 
able. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


341 


On  the  29th  of  July,  1896,  in  Hollentown,  Mr.  Heiting  married  Miss  Annie 
Lensen,  a daughter  of  George  and  Catherine  Lensen,  the  former  a well  known 
farmer.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Heiting  have  seven  children:  Minnie;  Johnnie;  Katie; 

Evangeline;  Lillian;  Wilfred;  and  Harold. 

Mr.  Heiting  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters  and  the  Order  of  Owls.  His  poli- 
tical allegiance  is  given  to  the  democratic  party  and  for  one  year  he  served  as 
a member  of  the  school  board  of  Clark  county.  In  addition  to  his  one-half  inter- 
est in  the  mill  operated  by  the  Stanley  Woodenware  Company,  he  owns  also  an 
attractive  residence  in  the  town  and  forty  acres  of  timber  land  in  Taylor  county. 
His  interests  are  all  carefully  and  capably  conducted  and  have  brought  him  a 
gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 


W.  J.  STOCKWELL  & SON. 

The  Maple  Leaf  Stock  Farm  of  W.  J.  Stockwell  & Son  is  one  well  known  in 
Holcombe  township  and  Chippewa  county.  They  are  proprietors  of  a farm  of 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  well  stocked  with  pure-blooded  and  high-grade 
Guernsey  cattle  and  they  conduct  an  extensive  and  profitable  dairy  business. 
Everything  is  done  along  modern  scientific  lines,  neatness  and  thriftiness  charact- 
erizing the  place,  while  the  utmost  care  is  given  to  the  sanitary  conditions  so 
that  milk  of  the  greatest  purity  is  put  upon  the  market.  Energetic  and  determined, 
Mr.  W.  J.  Stockwell  has  worked  his  way  upward  since  he  started  out  in  life 
on  his  own  account  at  an  early  age.  He  was  born  in  the  Green  Mountains  of 
Vermont  on  November  29,  i860,  and  is,the  son  of  Francis  and  Harriet  (Hale) 
Stockwell,  both  of  whom  were  natives  of  Massachusetts.  In  1865  they  removed 
to  Webster  county,  Iowa,  and  subsequently  went  to  Nebraska,  where  the  father 
homesteaded  a tract  of  land  and  engaged  in  farming.  He  continued  to  reside 
there  for  a long  time,  but  in  1902  came  to  Barron  county  and  now  makes  his 
home  on  a small  farm  near  Conrath,  Wisconsin.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  now 
past  seventy  years  of  age. 

Although  born  in  New  England,  W.  J.  Stockwell  has  spent  the  greater  part 
of  his  life  in  the  middle  west.  He  was  but  five  years  of  age  when  the  family 
went  to  Webster  county,  Iowa,  where  he  was  reared  until  the  removal  to  Nebraska. 
Of  the  latter  state  he  continued  a resident  until  1902  when  he  took  up  his  abode 
in  Barron  county.  Two  years  later,  however,  he  removed  to  Eau  Claire  and,  in 
1906,  came  to  the  farm  which  he  now  owns  and  occupies,  first  acting  as  manager 
for  the  previous  owner  and  subsequently  purchasing  the  land.  He  and  his  sons 
have  made  good  improvements  upon  the  place,  building  a large  barn,  also  putting 
up  a silo  and  adding  other  modern  accessories  and  equipments.  The  farm  is 
now  carefully  tilled  and  in  addition  to  the  raising  of  cereals,  Mr.  Stockwell 
makes  a specialty  of  handling  cattle,  and  now  has  thirty-five  head  of  high-grade 
and  pure-blooded  Guernseys,  with  a registered  bull  at  the  head  of  his  herd.  He 
thus  breeds  and  raises  stock  and  keeps  many  of  his  cows  for  dairy  purposes, 
selling  a large  amount  of  cream.  His  farming  and  dairying  interests  are  con- 
ducted along  most  scientific  lines  and  Mr.  Stockwell  is  meeting  with  good  sue- 


342 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


cess,  gaining  for  himself  a place  among  the  representative  agriculturists  of  the 
district. 

While  in  Nebraska,  Mr.  Stockwell  was  married  to  Miss  Violet  Harvard,  who 
was  born  in  the  state  of  New  York,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  six  children: 
Lester  D.,  who  is  in  partnership  with  his  father;  Clinton  H.,  who  is  married  and 
occupies  an  adjoining  farm ; Herbert,  who  is  married  and  makes  his  home  in 
Barron  county,  Wisconsin;  Edith,  the  wife  of  Iva  Dinsmore  of  Barron  county, 
and  Ethel  and  Aletha,  both  at  home.  Mrs.  Stockwell  passed  away  in  1903,  in 
Barron  county  and  Mr.  Stockwell  then  had  the  whole  care  and  responsibility  of 
the  children  and  some  of  them  were  at  the  time  quite  small. 

Mr.  Stockwell  is  a republican  and  has  served  on  the  township  board  for  two 
years.  He  was  also  clerk  of  the  school  hoard  for  two  years  and  he  is  interested 
in  all  measures  that  tend  to  improve  and  upbuild  town  and  county.  He  is  work- 
ing hard,  and  the  success  that  crowns  persistent  effort  is  now  rewarding  his 
labors. 


EDGAR  A.  FIRTH. 

The  career  of  Edgar  A.  Firth  is  significant  in  several  respects,  one  of  which 
is  that  ever  since  leaving  school  he  has  devoted  himself  to  official  life,  having 
served  in  various  positions  until  1908,  when  he  was  elected  to  the  position  which 
he  still  holds  as  register  of  deeds  of  Chippewa  county.  The  public  spirit  of 
Mr.  Firth  has  also  found  expression  along  other  lines  for  he  serves  today  in  the 
Wisconsin  National  Guard  with  the  rank  of  captain,  doing  everything  within  his 
power  to  improve  the  efficiency  of  the  state  troops  and  realizing  fully  the  impor- 
tant part  which  they  may  have  to  play  on  some  future  occasion  in  defending 
American  principles  and  American  rights.  Mr.  Firth  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa 
county,  where  lie  was  born  in  1877,  a son  of  Magnus  and  Kate  (Blair)  Firth, 
the  latter  passing  away  when  our  subject  was  yet  in  his  childhood.  She  found 
her  last  resting  place  in  Eagle  Point  cemetery. 

Edgar  A.  Firth  attended  school  until  about  nineteen  years  of  age,  thoroughly 
preparing  himself  for  a successful  career.  Shortly  after  he  became  assistant 
county  clerk,  continuing  in  that  position  for  six  years  and  becoming  acquainted 
with  the  public  business  of  the  county.  For  the  next  six  years  he  acted  as 
deputy  county  clerk  and,  having  given  evidence  of  ability  along  that  line,  was 
elected  in  that  year  to  his  present  position  of  register  of  deeds.  He  has  since 
1908  discharged  the  difficult  duties  of  his  office  and  has  given  high  satisfaction 
to  the  public  and  made  a record  which  is  a credit  to  himself.  He  is  systematic 
and  methodical  and  so  conducts  the  business  of  his  office  that  no  unnecessary 
delays  occur.  The  public  is  always  his  first  consideration  and  he  often  sacrifices 
his  private  interests  or  time  in  order  to  accommodate  someone  who  has  to  transact 
business  with  the  recorder’s  office. 

The  marriage  of  Mr.  Firth  to  Miss  Sylvia  Rumery  took  place  in  Chippewa 
Falls  on  the  26th  of  February,  1903.  Mrs.  Firth  is  a daughter  of  Ernest  and 
Cora  (Cunningham)  Rumery,  the  former  of  whom  passed  away  in  1913  and  was 
buried  at  Chippewa  Falls.  The  mother  now  resides  at  Lusk,  Wyoming.  Mr.  and 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


343 


Mrs.  Firth  reside  at  No.  207  High  street  and  there  often  welcome  their  many 
friends,  who  delight  to  gather  at  their  hospitable  fireside. 

Mr.  Firth  has  an  interesting  military  record  to  his  credit,  holding  the  com- 
mission of  captain  in  Company  C,  Tenth  Battalion  of  Infantry,  Wisconsin  National 
Guard.  He  has  been  with  this  organization  since  July  26,  1898,  when  the  com- 
pany was  organized  upon  the  first  call  for  troops.  The  young  soldiers,  however, 
were  not  called  upon  for  active  service  but  remained  at  home.  Captain  Firth 
is  deeply  interested  in  fostering  the  military  spirit  among  his  men,  realizing  the 
value  of  training  and  obedience,  for  these  characteristics  have  made  him  so  suc- 
cessful in  the  discharge  of  his  public  duties  as  register  of  deeds  and  he  therefore 
receives  not  only  the  highest  commendation  of  the  people  but  also  enjoys  their 
confidence  and  good-will. 


ANDREW  KORN. 


Prominent  among  Stanley's  business  men  of  ability  is  Andrew  Korn,  the 
proprietor  of  The  Square  Deal,  a general  merchandise  store.  Mr.  Korn  has 
been  the  owner  of  this  store  only  since  July,  1913,  but  was  previously  well  known 
in  the  commercial  life  of  Stanley  as  manager  of  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Com- 
pany’s store  there.  He  was  born  in  Austria,  May  28,  1871,  and  is  a son  of 
Andrew  and  Anna  M.  (Lacher)  Korn.  The  father,  a farmer  by  occupation, 
became  a resident  of  West  Bend,  Wisconsin,  May  10,  1883,  and  of  Stanley  in 
June,  1886.  Here  he  made  his  home  for  more  than  twenty-one  years,  passing 
away  September  6,  1907,  while  his  widow  still  survives.  Their  children  were: 
Josephine,  who  is  the  wife  of  Frank  Wald,  of  Stanley;  Andrew,  of  this  review; 
Frank,  and  Anthony,  both  of  whom  are  residents  of  Stanley;  Mary,  who  gave 
her  hand  in  marriage  to  John  Cance  of  Stanley ; and  Albert,  also  living  in  Stanley. 

Only  limited  educational  opportunities  were  enjoyed  by  Andrew  Korn.  He 
attended  school  for  but  four  months  yet  in  the  school  of  experience  has  learned 
many  valuable  lessons.  His  youth  was  largely  a period  of  earnest  and  unremit- 
ting toil  and  he  worked  upon  the  home  farm  to  the  age  of  nineteen  years.  He 
entered  the  mercantile  business  in  the  employ  of  the  Northwestern  Lumber -Com- 
pany, gradually  working  his  way  upward  to  the  position  of  manager  of  the  com- 
pany’s store  at  Stanley,  his  ability  and  energy  finding  recognition  in  promotion. 
He  served  efficiently  and  conscientiously  as  manager  until  July,  1913,  when  he 
resigned  that  position  and  went  into  business  for  himself,  buying  a general  mer- 
chandise store  which  he  conducts  under  the  name.  The  Square  Deal.  He  now 
owns  his  residence  and  some  city  property  and  he  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens 
Bank.  He  ranks  with  the  leading,  resourceful  and  enterprising  business  men  of 
Stanley  and  is  widely  and  favorably  known  through  Chippewa  county. 

On  the  13th  of  July,  1898”,  Mr.  Korn  was  married  at  Augusta,  Wisconsin,  to 
Miss  Rosetta  Rick,  a daughter  of  Charles  and  Pauline  (Breur)  Rick.  The  father, 
a farmer,  died  December  31,  1912,  but  the  mother  is  still  living  at  Augusta.  Unto 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Korn  have  been  born  three  children:  Fritz,  fourteen  years  of 

age ; Arnholt  and  Reinholt,  twins,  six  years  of  age. 


344 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  Korn  are  members  of  the  German  Catholic  church  and  Mr.  Korn 
is  a republican,  identified  with  the  Progressive  League  of  Stanley.  He  has  made 
wise  use  of  his  time,  talents  and  opportunities,  and  as  the  years  have  gone  by  his 
employment  of  the  advantages  which  have  come  to  him  has  brought  him  a grati- 
fying measure  of  affluence  and  given  him  position  among  the  representative  and 
valued  citizens  of  his  adopted  county. 


GEORGE  LOTZ. 

Energy,  determination  and  enterprise  have  been  the  basis  of  the  success  of 
George  Lotz  and  brought  him  to  an  enviable  place  in  industrial  circles  of  Boyd, 
where  he  is  well  known  as  the  owner  of  a large  and  valuable  bee  supply  factory. 
He  was  born  in  Sigel  township,  this  county,  September  4,  1869  and  is  a son  of 
August  and  Amelia  Lotz,  the  former  born  in  Germany  in  1847.  He  is  today 
a prosperous  farmer  and  bee-keeper  in  Delmar  township. 

George  Lotz  attended  public  school  in  Sigel  township  until  he  was  sixteen 
years  of  age,  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  assisted  his  father  with  the  work 
of  the  homestead.  They  kept  a great  number  of  bees  and  this  fact  called  their 
attention  to  the  difficulty  of  obtaining  bee  supplies.  Recognizing  a rare  business 
opportunity  they  erected  upon  the  farm  a plant  for  the  manufacture  of  these 
supplies.  Their  trade  extended  so  rapidly  that  in  a short  time  the  business  had 
outgrown  the  original  premises,  necessitating  the  erection  of  a new  factory.  This 
was  built  at  Boyd  in  1909  and  has  been  in  charge  of  George  Lotz  since  that 
time.  Under  his  able  management  it  has  become  a large,  productive  enterprise 
and  is  considered  an  important  addition  to  the  industrial  resources  of  this  section 
of  the  state.  The  plant  is  valued  at  fourteen  thousand  dollars  and  the  trade 
controlled  by  the  owner  is  important  and  representative.  In  addition  to  being 
a manufacturer  Mr.  Lotz  is  also  a bee  fancier  of  considerable  reputation  and 
he  raises  a great  number  of  bees,  he  and  his  father  owning  over  two  hundred 
and  fifty  hives. 

Mr.  Lotz  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  independent  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  served  for  three  years  as  a member  of  the  school  board  of 
Sigel  township,  discharging  his  duties  in  a creditable  and  able  way.  A great 
many  of  his  leisure  hours  are  spent  hunting  and  fishing,  sports  in  which  he  takes 
great  delight  and  in  which  he  is  very  proficient.  He  is  numbered  among  the 
progressive  and  enterprising  business  men  of  Boyd  and  his  success  has  been 
entirely  the  result  of  his  own  industry,  integrity  and  ability. 


CONRAD  WILLIAM  WlLIvOWSKE,  M.  D. 

Dr.  Conrad  William  Wilkowske,  a practicing  physician  and  surgeon  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  has  maintained  offices  in  the  Union  block  since  November,  1908, 
and  enjoys  an  enviable  reputation  for  his  skill  in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of 
the  eye,  ear,  nose  and  throat,  being  the  only  specialist  in  the  city.  His  birth 
occurred  in  Morristown,  Minnesota,  on  the  20th  of  June,  1874,  his  parents  being 
Rudolph  H.  and  Ida  M.  (Kopiske)  Wilkowske.  The  father,  a pioneer  of  Wis- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


345 


consin,  removed  to  Minnesota  during  the  period  of  the  Civil  war  and  in  the  latter 
state  devoted  his  attention  to  general  agricultural  pursuits  throughout  the 
remainder  of  his  active  business  career.  He  is  now  living  retired  at  Faribault, 
Minnesota.  His  wife  was  called  to  her  final  rest  in  May,  1898,  and  lies  buried 
at  Morristown,  Minnesota.  The  family  is  of  German  origin. 

Conrad  W.  Wilkowske  acquired  his  primary  education  in  a district  school 
at  Morristown,  Minnesota,  and  afterward  continued  his  studies  in  St.  Paul’s  Col- 
lege. Subsequently  he  taught  school  for  one  year  and  on  the  expiration  of  that 
period  embarked  in  business  with  his  brother,  F.  H.,  at  Morristown.  In  the  fall 
of  1900  he  entered  the  University  of  Minnesota  and  four  years  later  was  graduated 
from  that  institution  with  the  degree  of  M.  D.  He  opened  an  office  at  Arlington, 
Minnesota,  and  there  practiced  medicine  for  seven  months,  at  the  end  of  which 
time  he  removed  to  Faribault,  which  remained  the  scene  of  his  professional 
labors  until  the  spring  of  1908.  At  that  time  he  journeyed  to  Europe  and  pursued 
post-graduate  work  at  Vienna.  After  returning  to  the  United  States  he  settled 
at  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin,  in  November,  1908,  and  has  there  maintained 
his  offices  to  the  present  time,  specializing  in  diseases  of  the  eye,  ear,  nose  and 
throat.  He  is  the  only  specialist  in  the  city  and  has  been  accorded  a liberal  and 
lucrative  practice  in  recognition  of  his  skill  and  ability  in  the  line  of  his  chosen 
profession.  Through  his  membership  in  the  Chippewa  County  Medical  Society, 
the  Eau  Claire  County  Medical  Society,  the  Wisconsin  State  Medical  Society 
and  the  American  Medical  Association  he  keeps  in  close  touch  with  the  progress 
that  is  being  continually  made  by  the  fraternity. 

On  the  4th  of  June,  1896,  at  Morristown,  Minnesota,  Dr  Wilkowske  was 
united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Alice  M.  Kisor,  a daughter  of  Aaron  and  Sarah  G. 
(Dunlavey)  Kisor.  The  father,  a pioneer  agriculturist  of  Wisconsin,  removed 
from  this  state  to  Minnesota,  where  he  spent  the  remainder  of  his  life,  his  demise 
occurring  in  1908  and  his  burial  taking  place  at  Morristown.  His  widow  still 
resides  at  that  place.  Our  subject  and  his  wife  have  two  children,  namely: 
Sarah  G.,  who  is  a high  school  student;  and  Conrad  W.,  an  adopted  son.  The 
family  residence  is  at  No.  410  Superior  street,  Chippewa  Falls. 

In  politics  Dr.  Wilkowske  is  independent,  supporting  men  and  measures  rather 
than  party.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his  membership  in  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  church  and  he  is  also  a worthy  exemplar  of  the  Masonic  fraternity, 
belonging  to  the  blue  lodge.  He  is  appreciative  of  the  social  amenities  of  life 
and  his  genial  qualities  have  won  him  many  friends,  but  his  attention  is  preemi- 
nently given  to  his  professional  duties. 


LEONARD  G.  W.  HART,  Y.  S. 

Dr.  Leonard  G.  W.  Hart,  proprietor  of  the  Veterinary  Infirmary  at  Chippewa 
Falls  and  since  1903  in  active  and  successful  practice  here  as  a veterinary  surgeon, 
was  born  in  Le  Roy,  Minnesota,  July  29,  1871.  He  is  a son  of  George  and  Emma 
J.  (DeLine)  Hart,  the  former  a merchant  tailor  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin.  The 
latter  died  in  1902  and  is  buried  in  Lake  View  cemetery,  that  city. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


846 


Dr.  Leonard  G.  W.  Hart  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools 
of  Eau  Claire  and  at  the  age  of  fourteen  went  to  Europe  in  order  to  study  veter- 
inary surgery.  x\fter  one  year  he  returned  home  and  until  1890  assisted  his 
father  with  the  work  of  the  farm,  after  which  he  went  to  Toronto,  entering  the 
Ontario  Veterinary  College,  from  which  he  received  his  degree  in  March,  1892. 
Immediately  afterward  he  opened  an  office  at  Eau  Claire,  where  he  built  up 
a representative  practice,  conducting  it  successfully  until  1903,  when  he  moved 
to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  still  resides.  He  established  a veterinary  infirmary 
here,  measuring  forty  by  sixty  feet,  with  operating  rooms,  sixteen  by  thirty  feet. 
The  infirmary  is  equipped  with  everything  that  facilitates  the  best  service  and 
care  in  the  handling  of  animals,  including  an  operating  table  and  horse  stocks, 
and  he  has  met  with  gratifying  success  in  his  practice,  being  ranked  with  the 
leading  members  of  his  profession  in  this  part  of  the  state. 

In  Eau  Claire,  April  23,  1893,  Dr.  Hart  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Eliza- 
beth Crowley,  a daughter  of  William  Crowley,  a pioneer  farmer  of  that  vicinity. 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  Hart  have  four  children  : Margaret  IT,  a graduate  of  the  Chippewa 
Falls  high  school;  Leonard  G.  W.,  Jr.,  a student  in  the  high  school;  and  Bessie 
and  James  M.,  both  of  whom  are  still  pursuing  their  studies. 

Dr.  Hart  is  a blue  lodge  Mason,  a member  of  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  he 
gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  In  Eau  Claire  and  Chippewa 
Falls  he  has  served  as  a member  of  the  board  of  aldermen  and  is  progressive  and 
loyal  in  matters  of  citizenship,  cooperating  heartily  in  movements  for  the  general 
good.  He  is  able  in  his  profession  and  well  known  in  social  circles,  and  he  holds 
the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  in  any  way  associated  with  him. 


CHRIST  MOORE. 

Christ  Moore  now  resides  retired  in  Stanley  after  a successful  agricultural 
career.  Here  he  owns  his  own  residence,  one  of  the  most  commodious  and  com- 
fortable in  the  city,  and  also  has  other  interests,  including  a valuable  business 
block  in  the  city,  forty  acres  of  land  in  Taylor  county,  and  shares  in  the  Citizens 
State  Bank.  He  was  born  in  Denmark,  Brown  county,  Wisconsin,  August  15, 
1865,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Ellen  (Meehan)  Moore,  natives  of  Ireland.  The 
father,  who  was  born  in  1831,  was  a farmer  by  occupation  and  came  to  America 
when  a young  man.  He  died  in  1903,  his  wife  long  preceding  him  in  death,  passing 
away  in  1880.  In  their  family  were  eight  children,  of  whom  five  are  yet  living. 

Christ  Moore  was  educated  in  the  district  schools  of  Brown  county  until 
twelve  years  of  age  and  then  became  acquainted  with  the  minor  duties  in  connec- 
tion with  operating  the  farm.  At  the  age  of  twenty-four  he  started  out  for  him- 
self, buying  land  of  his  own,  in  the  cultivation  of  which  he  was  very  successful. 
In  1910  he  was  enabled  to  retire  and  came  in  that  year  to  Stanley,  where  he  now 
makes  his  home,  enjoying  a well  merited  competence. 

On  November  15,  1889,  at  Cooperstown,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Moore  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Anna  Fagin,  a daughter  of  Thomas  and  Lizzie  (Radican) 
Fagin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Moore  become  the  parents  of  six  children,  Marcella,  Agnes, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


347 


Raymond,  Richard,  Irene  and  Thomas,  of  whom  the  last  named  passed  away 
at  the  age  of  eighteen  months. 

Mr.  Moore  while  residing  in  Edson  township  was  prominently  connected  with 
public  life,  serving  for  three  years  as  supervisor  and  for  about  eight  or  ten  years 
as  a member  of  the  school  board.  He  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  church.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Moore  occupy  a comfortable  residence  in  Stanley,  where  they  hospitably 
entertain  their  many  friends.  He  still  owns  forty  acres  in  Taylor  county  and  also 
holds  title  to  a valuable  business  block  in  his  city.  He  is  likewise  a stockholder 
in  the  Citizens  State  Bank.  Having  always  applied  himself  industriously  and 
energetically  to  his  work,  he  has  been  enabled  to  retire  at  a comparatively  early 
age  and  such  success  as  has  come  to  him  is  highly  merited  for  it  is  the  result  of 
his  own  labor.  He  enjoys  the  respect  and  esteem  of  all  who  know  him. 


OLE  H.  THORP. 

A prominent  representative  of  industrial  activity  in  Stanley  is  Ole  H.  Thorp, 
manager  of  the  dressed  lumber  department  and  also  of  the  planing  mills  of  the 
Northwestern  Lumber  Company.  Enterprise,  diligence  and  laudable  ambition 
have  been  the  salient  features  in  his  career  and  have  wrought  for  the  success  which 
is  now  his  in  his  present  responsible  position.  He  is  one  of  the  oldest  lumber 
men  in  his  locality,  still  actively  connected  with  the  business.  He  was  born  in 
Norway,  October  6,  1852,  and  is  a son  of  Christian  Thorp,  also  a native  of  the 
land  of  the  midnight  sun.  The  father,  who  was  born  April  24,  1824,  learned  and 
followed  the  carpenter’s  trade.  He  became  a resident  of  Wisconsin  in  1882. 
spending  his  remaining  days  in  this  state,  his  death  occurring  in  1907.  His  wife, 
who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Inger  M.  Hansen,  was  also  born  in  Norway  and 
died  when  her  son,  Ole,  was  but  four  years  of  age.  He  is  the  only  child  of  that 
marriage.  After  losing  his  first  wife,  the  father  wedded  Ellen  Anderson  of 
Norway,  and  they  had  five  children ; Geina,  Anton,  Marie,  Martin  and  Olaf. 

Ole  H.  Thorp  attended  public  schools  of  Norway  until  eleven  years  of  age, 
after  which  he  began  working  in  a planing  mill,  being  thus  employed  until  he 
reached  the  age  of  twenty.  He  afterwards  spent  three  years  as  a saw  filer  and 
subsequently  became  assistant  foreman  in  a mill  and  lumber  yard,  acting  in  that 
capacity  for  eight  years.  He  landed  in  New  York  on  the  4th  of  June,  1880,  and 
then  came  to  Wisconsin,  settling  in  Downsville,  where  he  lived  to  the  age  of 
thirty,  being  employed  there  as  a laborer.  After  two  years  spent  there,  he  went 
to  Porters  Mills  in  the  spring  of  1882  and  became  an  employe  of  the  Northwestern 
Lumber  Company,  acting  as  saw  filer  for  two  years.  The  next  five  years  were 
spent  as  a grader  and  three  years  as  foreman.  On  the  13th  of  January,  1892, 
he  was  transferred  to  Stanley  as  manager  of  the  dressed  lumber  department  and 
planing  mill  for  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company.  He  is  one  of  the  oldest 
employes  of  the  company  at  Stanley  and  has  the  full  confidence  and  high  regard 
of  those  whom  he  represents.  His  long  and  varied  experience  in  the  lumber 
business  has  made  his  service  of  the  utmost  value  and  his  capability  and  fidelity 
are  features  in  the  success  of  the  Stanley  industry.  In  addition  to  his  connection 


348 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


with  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company,  Mr. .Thorp  is  a stockholder  in  the 
Citizens  State  Bank  and  in  the  Stanley  Dairy  & Warehouse  Company. 

On  the  27th  of  October,  1872,  in  Norway,  Mr.  Thorp  was  married  to  Miss 
Oline  Oleson,  a daughter  of  Ole  and  Ellen  Christianson.  The  twelve  children 
born  of  this  marriage  are:  Carl,  who  died  in  infancy;  Martine  O. ; Carl  E. ; 

Annettie,  who  died  at  the  age  of  four  years ; Harry  A. ; Elsie,  who  has  passed 
away ; Olga  Oline ; Dagni,  deceased ; Henry  O. ; George  E. ; Daniel,  who  has 
departed  from  this  life;  and  Florence  E.  The  eldest  daughter,  Martine  is  the 
wife  of  John  Long,  a butcher  of  Stanley,  and  they  have  eight  children.  Others 
of  the  family  are  also  married.  Carl  E.,  who  wedded  Mary  Peterson,  makes  his 
home  in  Everett,  Washington,  and  has  two  children.  Harry  A.,  a lumber  in- 
spector, married  Clara  Soles,  and  has  four  children.  Olga  is  the  wife  of  Nels 
Mahlon,  a minister  at  Harvey,  North  Dakota,  and  they  have  two  children. 
Another  son,  Henry,  follows  farming  in  North  Dakota. 

The  parents  are  members  of  the  United  Lutheran  church,  taking  active  interest 
in  its  work  and  doing  all  in  their  power  to  promote  its  growth.  Mr.  Thorp  is 
serving  as  one  of  its  deacons.  He  has  also  filled  political  offices,  having  been  aider- 
man  of  Stanley  for  three  terms.  He  is  a stalwart  advocate  of  the  republican 
party  and  stands  loyal  in  support  of  any  measure  in  which  he  believes.  That  his 
has  been  a well  spent  life  and  that  success  has  crowned  his  efforts  is  indicated 
in  the  fact  that  he  is  today  the  owner  of  a good  residence  in  Stanley  and  a farm 
of  seventy  acrfes  within  the  city  limits.  He  has  never  had  occasion  to  regret 
his  determination  to  seek  a home  in  the  new  world,  for  here  he  has  found  the 
opportunities  which  he  sought  and  in  their  improvement  has  worked  his  way 
steadily  upward,  gaining  a substantial  place  in  business  circles  and  an  honored 
name. 


CHARLES  H.  LIEHE. 

Charles  H.  Liehe  is  one  of  the  most  extensive  land-owners  in  Eagle  Point 
township  and  is  also  prominently  connected  with  business  interests  as  one  of 
the  proprietors  of  the  only  general  store  at  Eagleton.  He  was  born  at  Chippewa 
Falls  in  1874,  a son  of  Charles  Liehe,  a native  of  Germany  who  came  to  the 
United  States  in  1869,  locating  first  in  Chicago,  Illinois,  where  he  spent  one  year. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  there  engaged  in  car- 
pentering until  the  spring  of  1875  when  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  buying 
land  a half  mile  east  of  Eagleton.  Two  years  later  he  built  a store  in  Eagleton, 
and  this  he  operated  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  October,  1911,  when  he 
was  seventy  years  of  age.  He  married  Miss  Paulina  Dreger,  who  died  in  1889, 
leaving  seven  children:  Charles  IT,  of  this  review,  Mrs.  F.  R.  Struve,  Bertha, 

Otto,  Albert,  Emma  and  Clara. 

Charles  H.  Liehe  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  even  in  his  childhood  assisted  with  the  operation  of  the  homestead. 
When  he  began  his  independent  career  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming  and 
he  has  since  acquired  valuable  holdings,  owning  in  conjunction  with  his  brother, 
Albert,  two  hundred  and  ninety  acres  of  cultivated  land  and  large  tracts  of  cut 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


349 


ft 

over  land  in  Eagle  Point  township.  Since  the  father’s  death  the  two  brothers 
have  also  operated  the  general  store  at  Eagleton  and  have  built  up  a flourishing 
business  as  a result  of  their  reasonable  prices,  their  well  selected  stock  of  goods 
and  their  fair  and  straightforward  methods  of  dealing. 

Charles  H.  Liehe  is  still  single,  but  his  brother  Albert  married  Miss  Effie 
Horton  and  has  two  children,  Robert  and  William.  Mr.  Liehe  of  this  review 
is  a member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  is  identified  with  the  Masonic 
fraternity.  He  votes  independently  and  has  held  various  positions  of  public 
trust  and  responsibility,  serving  for  two  years  as  town  clerk  and  for  four  as  sec- 
retary of  the  school  board.  He  now  holds  the  position  of  town  chairman  and  his 
excellent  work  in  all  of  these  capacities  has  gained  him  a reputation  as  a careful 
and  conscientious  public  official.  He  is  a man  of  sterling  character  and  excellent 
qualities  and  is  a native  son  of  whom  Chippewa  county  has  every  reason  to  be 
proud. 


JOSEPH  WALSDORF. 

Prominent  among  the  energetic,  farseeing  and  prosperous  business  men  of 
Stanley  is  Joseph  Walsdorf,  who  is  president  of  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State 
Bank  and  also  treasurer  of  the  Stanley  Woodenware  Company.  He  was  born 
in  Calumet  county,  Wisconsin,  July  26,  1867.  Llis  father,  William  Walsdorf,  a 
native  of  Germany,  made  farming  his  life  occupation.  On  coming  to  Wisconsin 
in  early  manhood  he  settled  in  Calumet  county,  becoming  one  of  its  pioneer  resi- 
dents. In  the  midst  of  the  forest  he  built  a log  cabin  and  it  was  in  that  home  that 
the  birth  of  his  son  Joseph  occurred.  He  lived  to  witness  remarkable  changes 
as  the  county  was  settled  and  developed.  ITe  was  seventy-two  years  of  age  when 
he  was  called  to  his  final  rest,  his  death  occurring  in  IQ04.  In  early  manhood 
he  married  Anna  Nicklia,  who  was  born  in  Germany  in  1825  and  now  occupies 
the  old  homestead  in  Calumet  county.  In  the  family  were  eight  children  : William, 
Margaret,  Peter,  John,  Nicholas,  Joseph,  Rosa  and  August. 

Joseph  Walsdorf  entered  the  public  schools  at  the  usual  age  and  continued 
his  studies  until  he  reached  his  fifteenth  year.  He  afterward  spent  the  time 
largely  in  farm  work  until  he  had  attained  his  majority,  when  he  went  to  Thorp 
and  obtained  employment  in  the  lumber  woods,  being  thus  engaged  until  he 
reached  the  age  of  twenty-eight  years.  Nineteen  years  ago  he  came  to  Stanley 
as  agent  for  the  Chippewa  Brewing  Company  and  throughout  the  years  of  his 
residence  here  he  has  been  very  successful  in  his  business  affairs.  As  time 
has  passed  and  prosperity  has  rewarded  his  labors,  he  has  become  a factor  in 
financial  circles  and  is  now  president  of  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State  Bank  and 
one  of  its  leading  stockholders.  Lie  has  also  became  interested  in  the  Stanley 
Woodenware  Company,  of  which  he  is  treasurer. 

On  the  25th  of  June,  1894,  Mr.  Walsdorf  was  married  to  Miss  Lizzie  Posslev, 
a daughter  of  Nicholas  and  Anna  (Michaels)  Possley,  of  Washington  county, 
who  were  farming  people.  The  marriage  was  celebrated  at  St.  Ann’s  in  Calumet 
county,  June  25,  1894,  and  they  have  six  children:  Chester,  Isadore,  Arthur, 
Irene,  Arnold  and  Marie. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


350 

Mr.  Walsdorf  is  a member  of  the  Equitable  Fraternal  Union  and  also  has 
membership  with  the  Owls.  In  politics  he  is  a democrat  and  has  been  called  to 
public  office,  serving  for  four  years  as  supervisor  and  for  ten  years  as  alderman, 
making  a most  creditable  record  in  both  positions.  He  was  serving  as  alderman 
when  the  streets  were  paved,  and  it  was  through  his  efforts,  in  conjunction  with 
other  members  of  the  city  council,  that  the  paving  and  other  improvements  were 
made.  He  has  always  stood  for  progress  and  advancement  and  his  labors  have 
been  effective  and  far-reaching  forces  along  those  lines.  In  addition  to  his 
residence  in  Stanley  he  owns  a half  interest  in  eighty  acres  of  timber  land.  Suc- 
cess has  come  to  him  as  the  years  have  gone  by  as  the  result  of  close  application, 
persistent  energy  and  well  directed  effort,  and  he  is  widely  and  favorably  known 
in  the  city  and  county  in  which  he  makes  his  home. 


ANTIION  N.  FINSTAD. 

Anthon  N.  Finstad,  a young  man  of  ability  and  enterprise,  who  has  been 
identified  with  the  cheese  and  butter  making  business  during  all  of  his  active 
life  and  who  is  now  doing  capable  work  in  the  positions  of  manager  and  butter 
maker  at  the  Albertville  Creamery,  was  born  in  Pierce  county,  Wisconsin,  Jan- 
uary 3,  1883,  and  is  a son  of  Nels  P.  and  Karen  O.  (Nesset)  Finstad,  who  were 
the  parents  of  eight  children,  three  of  whom,  a son  and  two  daughters,  died  in 
childhood.  Those  living  are,  Anthon  N.,  Morton,  Peter,  Alvin  and  Mary.  The 
father  has  passed  away  and  is  survived  by  the  mother,  who  makes  her  home  in 
Pierce  county. 

A.  N.  Finstad  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  locality 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  eighteen.  After  leaving  school  he  learned 
cheese  and  butter  making  and  followed  his  trade  in  Pierce  county.  In  1901  the 
Pierce  County  Fair  recognized  his  skill  as  a cheese  maker  by  awarding  him 
the  first  premium.  In  1902  he  decided  to  try  another  line  of  work  and  entered 
the  employ  of  the  Great  Northern  Railroad  Company  at  St.  Paul  as  clerk  in  the 
auditing  department.  As  this  was  too  great  a strain  upon  his  health  he  returned 
to  dairy  work  the  following  spring.  At  the  end  of  several  years’  service  in  Pierce 
county  he  moved  to  Albertville  and  accepted  the  position  of  manager  of  the 
creamery  there,  acting  also  as  butter  maker.  His  previous  experience  has  proven 
invaluable  to  him  and  he  has  also  found  much  of  value  in  the  literature  dealing 
with  his  specialties.  He  has  done  excellent  work  in  both  capacities,  his  ability 
being  widely  recognized  and  respected.  He  is  an  expert  cheese  maker  and  received 
the  silver  medal  for  cheese  awarded  at  the  convention  of  the  Wisconsin  Cheese 
Makers  Association  in  1906,  Mr.  Finstad’s  scoring  ninety-nine  points. 

In  this  county  in  1909  Mr.  Finstad  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Hannah 
L.  Hernes,  a daughter  of  John  Hernes,  a farmer  of  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Finstad  have  become  the  parents  of  two  children,  Arleigh  G.  and  John  N. 
Mr.  Finstad  is  a member  of  the  Independent  Scandinavian  Workingman’s  Associ- 
ation and  his  religious  views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Lutheran 
church.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and,  although  not  an  office- 
seeker,  is  interested  in  the  cause  of  education  and  is  serving  at  the  present  time 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


351 


as  a director  of  the  school  board  of  district  No.  io.  He  is  well  known  in  Albert- 
ville and  the  vicinity,  where  his  business  integrity  and  personal  characteristics 
have  gained  him  a wide  circle  of  friends. 


FRANK  JACOBS. 

Farming,  stock-raising  and  dairy  interests  of  Delmar  township  find  a pro- 
gressive and  worthy  representative  in  Frank  Jacobs,  living  upon  eighty  acres  of 
fine  land  on  section  8.  He  was  born  in  Germany,  August  15,  1855,  a son  of  Mat- 
thew and  Anna  (Dietrich)  Jacobs,  also  natives  of  that  country,  both  born  in  1834. 
The  father  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1862  and  settled  in  Washington  county,  where 
he  followed  farming  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1906.  His  wife  has  also 
passed  away,  dying  in  1912.  To  their  union  were  bora  ten  children,  eight  of 
whom  are  still  living. 

Frank  Jacobs  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany  and 
in  those  of  Washington  county,  Wisconsin.  When  he  was  thirteen  years  of  age 
he  began  working  on  his  father’s  farm  and  he  continued  thus  until  he  was  twenty- 
seven.  At  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  railroading,  serving  for  eleven 
years  thereafter  as  foreman  of  a section  gang.  At  the  age  of  thirty-eight  he 
purchased  a farm  in  Calumet  county  and  upon  that  property  remained  for  three 
years.  In  1899  he  sold  this  and  moved  to  Delmar  township,  this  county,  buying 
eighty  acres  of  land  on  section  8,  township  29,  range  5.  There  he  owns  eighty 
acres  of  land  and  has  been  most  successful  in  its  cultivation,  raising  all  kinds 
of  small  grains.  He  is  also  interested  in  stock-raising  and  he  specializes  in 
dairying,  his  dairy  products  obtaining  a ready  sale  on  the  local  market. 

In  Brown  county,  on  the  14th  of  November,  1882,  Mr.  Jacobs  married  Miss 
Agnes  Jaster,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Martin  Jaster,  the  former  a shoemaker 
and  farmer.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jacobs  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children:  Wil- 
liam, Joseph,  Frank,  Frank,  second  of  the  name,  and  John,  all  of  whom  have 
passed  away ; Matthew  ; George  ; August ; Peter ; Annie ; and  Agnes,  who  married 
Philip  Stuttgen,  proprietor  of  a saloon  in  Forest  county.  Air.  Jacobs  is  a member 
of  the  Roman  Catholic  church,  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Knights 
and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  takes  an  intelligent  interest  in  public 
affairs  but  his  attention  is  largely  concentrated  upon  his  farming  interests  and 
in  their  capable  management  he  has  met  with  gratifying  success. 


WILLIAM  D.  SCHULTZ. 

\\  illiam  D.  Schultz,  proprietor  of  a grocery  and  ice  cream  parlor  in  Stanley, 
was  born  in  Germany,  November  9,  1857,  a son  of  William  and  Hannah  ( Keppen) 
Schultz,  also  natives  of  that  country.  The  father’s  birth  occurred  in  1832  and 
in  1 866  he  emigrated  to  America,  settling  in  Dodge  county,  Wisconsin,  where  he 
followed  farming.  He  went  to  Dunn  county*  this  state,  in  1876  and  there  bought 
railroad  land  which  he  cultivated  until  his  death,  in  1879.  His  wife,  who  was 


352 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


born  in  1831,  survives  and  makes  her  home  in  the  state  of  Washington.  The) 
were  the  parents  of  nine  children:  William  D.,  Charles,  Fred,  Frank,  Richard, 
August,  George,  Minnie  and  Bertha. 

William  D.  Schultz  attended  district  school  in  Dodge  county  until  he  was 
eleven  years  of  age  and  then  began  working  as  a farm  laborer,  continuing  thus 
until  he  was  twenty-six.  He  then  moved  to  Boyd  and  secured  a position  in  a 
heading  mill,  retaining  it  for  twelve  years  thereafter.  In  1895  he  moved  to 
Stanley  and  established  himself  in  the  grocery  and  ice  cream  business  there.  He 
now  controls  a large  and  representative  patronage,  for  he  has  become  recognized 
as  an  alert  and  farsighted  business  man  whose  methods  of  dealing  are  at  all  times 
straightforward  and  honorable.  His  wife  conducts  a large  millinery  establish- 
ment and  she  also  has  met  with  gratifying  success. 

On  the  16th  October,  1882,  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Schultz  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Catherine  Baier,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Joseph  Baier, 
the  former  a farmer  in  Dunn  county.  Fraternally  Mr.  Schultz  is  identified  with 
the  Masons,  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the  Knights  of  Pythias. 
He  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  served  as  a member  of  the  vil- 
lage council,  on  the  county  board  and  as  street  commissioner.  He  merits  the 
confidence  and  respect  of  all  who  know  him  and  is  numbered  among  the  most 
substantial  citizens  of  the  community. 


FRANK  GOODMAN. 

Frank  Goodman,  a successful  dairy  farmer  whose  home  place  comprises 
one  hundred  and  seventy-seven  acres  on  section  25,  township  30,  range  7,  is 
the  owner  of  six  forty-acre  tracts  near  Cobban.  He  has  also  made  a creditable 
record  as  a public  official,  having  served  for  more  than  two  decades  as  treasurer 
of  his  township,  while  for  sixteen  years  he  held  the  position  of  postmaster 
at  Drywood.  His  birth  occurred  in  the  grand  duchy  of  Baden,  Germany,  on 
the  1st  of  April,  1855,  his  parents  being  Anton  and  Gertrude  (Spath)  Goodman, 
both  of  whom  passed  away  in  that  country.  The  father  was  an  agriculturist 
by  occupation  and  acted  as  overseer  of  a forest. 

Frank  Goodman  acquired  his  education  in  the  common  schools  of  his  native 
land  and  when  a young  man  of  nineteen  years  emigrated  to  the  United  States, 
making  his  way  direct  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  where  he  began  working 
in  the  woods.  In  1885,  in  association  with  his  brother  Mathias,  he  purchased  a 
store  at  Drywood,  the  partnership  being  maintained  until  1896,  when  he  acquired 
his  brother’s  interest  and  afterward  conducted  the  establishment  alone  until 
1904.  In  the  meantime  he  had  become  a landowner  and  his  holdings  now  em- 
brace six  forty-acre  tracts  near  Cobban.  For  the  past  nine  years  he  has  lived 
on  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-seven  acres  on  section  25,  township  30, 
range  7,  the  place  being  improved  with  an  excellent  set  of  buildings,  including  the 
only  brick  house  in  that  part  of  the  county.  By  means  of  a hydraulic  ram,  water 
is  supplied  to  the  house  and  barns  from  a living  spring.  Mr.  Goodman  devotes 
his  time  and  energies  to  dairy  farming  and  in  this  connection  has  met  with  success, 
enjoying  an  enviable  reputation  as  one  of  the  substantial  agriculturists  and  repre- 


MR.  AND  MRS.  FRANK  GOODMAN 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


355 


sentative  citizens  of  Chippewa  county.  In  1900  he  built  the  first  cheese  factory 
in  this  section,  giving  thereby  another  evidence  of  his  enterprise. 

On  October  23,  1883,  in  this  county  Mr.  Goodman  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Anna  P>oseck,  a native  of  Bohemia,  and  a daughter  of  Joseph  and  Anna 
(Postpichel)  Boseck.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Goodman  have  seven  children,  as  follows: 
Anna,  who  lives  at  State  Center,  Iowa ; Louis  W.,  who  wedded  Miss  Malina 
Giguer  and  resides  in  San  Francisco,  California;  Lottie,  who  gave  her  hand  in 
marriage  to  Joseph  Setlacetek,  of  Arthur  township ; and  Rose,  Peter,  Martha 
and  William,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Goodman  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democracy  and  has  served 
his  fellow  townsmen  in  positions  of  public  trust.  He  acted  in  the  capacity  of 
township  treasurer  for  a period  of  twenty-three  years  and  held  the  position  of 
postmaster  at  Drywood  for  sixteen  years  or  until  the  office  was  discontinued. 
He  and  his  brother  Mathias  were  the  principal  contributors  to  the  building 
fund  of  the  Catholic  church  at  Drywood  and  have  remained  its  most  liberal 
supporters  to  the  present  time.  Frank  Goodman  has  served  as  treasurer  of  the 
church  since  its  organization.  He  has  been  straightforward  and  honorable  in 
all  his  dealings,  has  manifested  public  spirit  in  matters  of  citizenship  and  has 
been  loyal  to  the  ties  of  home  and  of  friendship.  These  qualities,  therefore, 
have  made  his  record  one  of  honorable  manhood  well  worthy  of  emulation.  He 
has  never  had  occasion  to  regret  his  determination  to  come  to  the  new  world,  for 
here  he  found  the  opportunities  which  he  sought  and  in  their  wise  utilization 
has  won  prosperity.  Chippewa  county  has  been  his  home  for  almost  four  dec- 
ades and  he  is  well  and  favorably  known  within  its  borders. 


LESLIE  A.  WILCOX. 

One  of  the  most  enterprising  and  successful  business  men  of  Stanley  is  Leslie 
A.  Wilcox,  who,  since  1910  has  conducted  a large  department  store  in  the  city. 
He  was  born  in  Hebron,  Jefferson  county,  this  state,  June  7,  1873,  and  is  a son 
of  DeWight  and  Ella  (Netting)  Wilcox,  natives  of  New  York  state,  the  former 
born  in  1846  and  the  latter  in  1850.  As  a young  man,  the  father  moved  to 
Wisconsin  and  has  been,  since  that  time,  sexton  of  the  Fort  Atkinson  cemetery. 
His  wife  passed  away  in  1891,  leaving  three  children:  Leslie  A.,  of  this  review; 
Frank  and  Alice. 

Leslie  A.  Wilcox  attended  public  school  in  Fort  Atkinson  until  he  was  sixteen 
years  of  age  and  then  laid  aside  his  books,  turning  his  attention  to  farm  labor. 
When  he  was  twenty-five  he  went  to  the  northern  part  of  Wisconsin  and  there 
worked  in  the  woods  for  a number  of  years.  I11  1910  he  abandoned  that  line 
of  occupation  and  came  to  Stanley,  where  he  opened  a department  store,  with 
which  he  has  since  continued.  His  stock  is  valued  at  eighteen  hundred  dollars 
and  his  patronage  is  continually  growing,  for  he  is  recognized  as  a farsighted  and 
enterprising  business  man,  whose  sagacity  is  far-reaching  and  whose  integrity 
is  beyond  question. 

On  the  20th  of  April,  1904,  Mr.  Wilcox  married  Miss  Ella  Markert,  a daugh- 
ter of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  Markert,  the  former  a prosperous  farmer,  who 

voi.  n— 19 


356 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


died  in  1908  at  the  age  of  eighty-four.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wilcox  have  two  children. 
Dale  and  Forrest.  The  parents  own  together,  eighty  acres  of  wild  land  in  Clark 
county  and  Mrs.  Wilcox  is  the  owner  of  the  Star  restaurant,  which  she  conducts 
successfully  and  profitably.  Mr.  Wilcox  was,  for  more  than  a year  and  a half, 
a member  of  Company  B,  Wisconsin  National  Guard  and  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs  and  his  religious  views  are  in  accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  Christian 
Science  church.  He  is  a man  of  high  integrity  and  sterling  worth  and  he  com- 
mands and  holds  the  respect  and  esteem  of  his  friends  and  business  associates. 


PRESTON  THOMAS  FAVELL. 

Preston  Thomas  Favell,  holding  a position  of  distinctive  precedence  in  finan- 
cial circles  of  Chippewa  Falls  as  cashier  of  the  Northwestern  State  Bank,  has 
been  connected  with  banking  interests  here  since  1890  and  has  held  his  present 
responsible  position  since  1904.  He  was  born  in  Royalton,  Wisconsin,  August 
13,  1862,  and  is  a son  of  Joseph  and  Laura  (Hayward)  Favell,  the  former  one 
of  the  early  loggers  in  this  state  and  a pioneer  of  1840.  He  has  passed  away 
and  is  buried  in  Royalton.  The  family  is  of  English  origin  and  has  been  in  Amer- 
ica for  a number  of  years,  its  representatives  having  first  settled  in  this  country 
about  the  year  1830. 

Preston  Thomas  Favell  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Wau- 
paca county  and  in  the  high  school  at  Waupaca,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the 
age  of  fifteen.  He  then  became  telegraph  operator  for  the  old  Green  Bay  & 
Minnesota  Railroad  Company,  retaining  this  connection  for  five  years  thereafter. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Winona,  Minnesota,  where  he  was  employed 
in  the  general  freight  office  of  the  Chicago  & Northwestern  Railroad  for  about 
one  year.  In  1882  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  here  secured  a position  as 
American  Express  agent  and  manager  of  the  Western  Union  Telegraph  Company, 
remaining  thus  until  1890.  In  that  year  he  became  connected  with  financial 
interests  of  the  city,  entering  the  Lumbermens  National  Bank  as  assistant  cashier, 
a position  which  he  held  until  1904,  when  he  accepted  the  office  of  cashier  of  the 
Northwestern  State  Bank.  He  is  still  serving  in  that  capacity  and  is  also  a 
director  in  the  institution,  being  well  known  in  banking  circles  as  a man  of  sound 
judgment,  far-reaching  sagacity  and  great  ability  as  a financier. 

In  Green  Bay,  Wisconsin,  August  15,  1881,  Mr.  Favell  was  united  in  marriage 
to  Miss  Elizabeth  Eisman,  a daughter  of  John  G.  and  Catherine  (Imig)  Eisman, 
the  former  an  early  settler  in  Wisconsin  and  a well  known  merchant.  Both 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  at  Waukesha,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Favell 
became  the  parents  of  four  children : Leslie  D..  who  met  death  by  drowning 

when  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age  and  who  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery, 
Chippewa  Falls;  Harry  P.,  bookkeeper  in  the  Northwestern  State  Bank;  Eugene 
G.,  office  manager  of  the  Hunter  Land  Company  in  Minneapolis,  Minnesota;  and 
Lucille  A.,  a student  in  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school. 

Mr.  Favell  is  worshipful  master  of  the  Masonic  lodge  of  Chippewa  Falls  and 
well  known  in  that  organization.  He  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


357 


and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  Since  1900  he  has  done  efficient  and 
conscientious  work  as  secretary  of  the  board  of  education  and  has  been  president 
of  the  Progressive  League  and  treasurer  of  the  North  Wisconsin  State  Fair 
Association.  He  is  now  president  of  Group  No.  1,  Wisconsin  Bankers  Asso- 
ciation and  his  ability  is  widely  recognized  in  financial  circles. 


FRED  JENSEN. 

Through  well  directed  business  activity  and  enterprise  Fred  Jensen  has  gained 
recognition  as  one  of  the  representative  and  able  business  men  of  Stanley,  where 
he  is  manager  of  the  Stanley  Dairy  & Warehouse  Company.  He  was  born  in 
Denmark,  March  2,  1870,  and  is  a son  of  Andreas  and  Ida  (Christensen)  Jensen, 
also  natives  of  that  country,  the  former  born  in  1840  and  the  latter  in  1852. 
The  mother  passed  away  in  1872  and  is  survived  by  her  husband,  who  still  makes 
his  home  in  his  native  country. 

Fred  Jensen  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  and  parish  schools  of  Den- 
mark and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  eighteen.  At  that  time  he  emigrated 
to  America,  where  for  a time  he  worked  in  a hotel  as  interpreter  for  the  emi- 
grants, making  four  trips  between  New  York  and  Chicago  and  three  trips  across 
the  Atlantic  as  a guard  and  guide.  When  he  abandoned  this  work  he  took  up  a 
homestead  in  Saunders  county,  Nebraska,  and  after  operating  this  for  three 
years  moved  to  the  vicinity  of  Cadott,  where  he  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land.  This  he  afterward  sold  and  in  1899  opened  the  first  creamery  in 
Chippewa  county.  He  afterward  established  a similar  enterprise  at  Eden,  in 
Pierce  county,  and  another  at  Jim  Falls.  In  1910  he  moved  to  Stanley,  where  he 
erected  a modern  creamery,  opening  it  for  business  under  the  name  of  the  Stanley 
Dairy  & Warehouse  Company,  of  which  he  has  since  been  manager,  his  previous 
experience  and  his  business  ability  making  him  very  successful  in  this  position. 

At  Omaha,  Nebraska,  December  23,  1894,  Mr.  Jensen  married  Miss  Pearl 
Christensen,  a daughter  of  Fred  and  Lina  Christensen,  the  former  a contractor 
and  builder  of  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jensen  have  four  children,  Russell  J., 
Tessie  B.,  Goldie  D.  and  Lester  C.  Mr.  Jensen  is  connected  fraternally  with  the 
Beavers  and  the  Owls,  is  a member  of  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  a demo- 
crat in  his  political  views.  He  is  held  in  high  esteem  in  Stanley,  where  his  ability, 
enterprise  and  capacity  are  recognized  and  respected. 


GEORGE  MASON. 

Among  the  men  who  have  made  substantial  contributions  to  the  agricultural 
resources  of  Chippewa  county  and  who  in  promoting  their  own  prosperity  along 
modern  and  progressive  lines  have  aided  greatly  in  the  general  advancement,  is 
numbered  George  Mason,  who  owns  and  operates  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
on  section  1,  Edson  township.  He  is  a native  of  Wisconsin,  born  in  Manitowoc 
county,  July  19,  1862,  a son  of  Marvin  and  Susannah  (Guewey)  Mason,  natives 


358 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  New  York  state,  the  former  born  in  1818  and  the  latter  in  1826.  The  father 
was  a Wisconsin  pioneer,  having  come  to  this  state  in  1854  and  homesteaded 
eighty  acres  of  land,  which  he  cleared  and  improved,  building  upon  it  a log 
cabin  in  which  he  reared  his  family  of  ten  children.  Both  he  and  his  wife 
died  in  1902,  leaving  the  following  children,  Phoebe,  Martha,  Mary  A.,  Marrilla, 
Jane,  Annis,  Sarah,  Permelia,  George  and  Charles. 

George  Mason  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Manitowoc 
county,  attending  about  two  days  every  week  until  he  was  twelve  years  of  age. 
He  grew  up  amid  pioneer  conditions  and  even  before  laying  aside  his  books 
assisted  with  the  operation  of  the  homestead,  continuing  thus  until  after  his 
father’s  death  in  1902.  He  then  purchased  the  old  farm  and  continued  upon  it 
until  1909,  when  he  moved  to  Edson  township,  this  county,  where  he  bought 
one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  1,  township  28,  range  5 west.  Upon 
this  property  he  has  since  resided  and  his  farming,  dairying  and  stock-raising 
interests  are  extensive  and  important.  He  keeps  thirty-five  head  of  Holstein 
cattle,  two  being  pure-bred  registered  animals,  and  five  horses,  and  he  pays 
special  attention  to  this  branch  of  his  activities,  which  forms  one  of  his  most 
important  sources  of  income. 

At  Reedsville,  on  the  31st  of  July,  1903,  Mr.  Mason  married  Mrs.  Bertha 
(Rusch)  Coony,  the  widow  of  Frank  Coony,  a fur  dresser  who  died  in  1902, 
leaving  three  children : Violet,  who  married  Daniel  Shunk,  a farmer  of  Edson 

township,  by  whom  she  has  a daughter,  Bernice;  Frances  A.;  and  Charles  E. 
Mrs.  Mason  is  a daughter  of  Carl  and  Amanda  (Bessert)  Rusch,  the  former  a 
sawmill  proprietor  at  Reedsville.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mason  have  three  children  : 
Susanna  E.,  Amelia  W.,  and  Isabelle  E. 

Mr.  Mason  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  church  and  a democrat  in  his  poli- 
tical beliefs.  He  is  widely  known  throughout  the  county  and  his  substantial 
characteristics  have  gained  him  the  warm  regard  and  unqualified  trust  of  his 
fellow  townsmen. 


OLE  E.  BJORNSTAD. 

For  the  past  twenty-five  years  Ole  E.  Bjornstad  has  engaged  in  the  tailoring 
business  and  since  1900  has  conducted  a shop  in  Stanley,  where  he  has  secured 
a position  among  the  representative  and  prosperous  business  men.  He  was  born 
in  Norway,  December  19,  1853,  a son  of  Erland  and  Guri  (Anson)  Bjornstad, 
also  natives  of  that  country.  The  father  was  born  in  1819,  and  during  his  entire 
life  engaged  in  farming.  However,  when  he  came  to  America  he  retired  from 
his  active  life  and  is  still  living  with  his  son  Ole  in  Stanley.  His  wife’s  birth 
occurred  in  1821  and  she  died  in  Chippewa  county  in  1910.  To  their  union  were 
born  eight  children,  four  of  whom  are  still  living:  Thomas  E.,  who  is  engaged 

in  farming  in  Minnesota  ; Ole  E.,  the  subject  of  this  review  ; Gundhild,  who  became 
the  wife  of  Knute  Johnson,  a farmer  in  Minnesota,  by  whom  she  had  six  chil- 
dren; and  Ragnhild,  who  married  John  Vager,  a farmer  in  Minnesota,  and  has 
two  children. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


359 


Ole  E.  Bjornstad  attended  school  in  Norway  until  he  was  sixteen  years  of 
age,  and  then  learned  the  tailor’s  trade,  working  at  it  afterwards  as  an  employe, 
until  1888.  In  that  year  he  opened  a shop  of  his  own  at  Augusta,  Wisconsin,  and 
he  afterward  moved  to  Altoona,  Wisconsin,  where  he  was  in  business  for  some 
years.  In  1900  he  moved  to  Stanley  and  there  he  now  conducts  an  exclusive 
tailoring  establishment.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Inter-County  Fair  Association 
and  he  owns,  beside  his  business  premises  on  North  Broadway,  a fine  home  on 
the  south  side  of  the  city. 

Mr.  Bjornstad  married  on  the  27th  of  February,  1887,  Miss  Mary  Olsen,  a 
daughter  of  Ole  and  Carry  (Moen)  Olsen,  the  former  a laborer  in  Augusta, 
Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bjornstad  have  three  children:  Edward,  Gina  and 
Olga. 

Mr.  Bjornstad  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  Amer- 
ica and  the  Order  of  Owls.  He  is  a republican  in  his  political  belief  and  he  did 
excellent  service  for  five  years  as  alderman  at  Altoona,  Wisconsin.  He  is  known 
as  a progressive  citizen  and  he  holds  the  high  regard  and  confidence  of  an  excel- 
lent circle  of  friends.  The  family  attend  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  church. 


CHARLES  S.  ELLENSOHN. 

Charles  S.  Ellensohn,  a valued  and  representative  citizen  of  Sigel  township, 
connected  with  agricultural  interests  as  a successful  truck  farmer  and  with  public 
life  as  chairman  of  the  township,  was  born  in  Germany,  December  22,  1848.  He  is 
a son  of  Conrad  and  Francisca  (Mark)  Ellensohn,  also  natives  of  that  country, 
the  former  born  on  November  22,  1821,  and  the  latter  in  1817.  The  father  came 
to  Wisconsin  in  1854  and  followed  farming  in  this  state  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  March  26,  1911.  He  had  long  survived  his  wife,  who  passed  away  in 
1857.  They  were  the  parents  of  seven  children:  Eugene,  Joseph,  Charles,  of 

this  review,  Louisa,  Mary  and  two  who  died  in  infancy. 

Charles  S.  Ellensohn  was  still  a child  when  his  parents  emigrated  to  America 
and  he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Bangor  and  La  Crosse, 
Wisconsin,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  began  his  independ- 
ent career  as  a farm  laborer,  continuing  thus  until  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age, 
when  he  joined  his  father  in  the  operation  of  a brewery  at  Chatfield,  Minnesota. 
At  the  end  of  six  years  they  disposed  of  this  enterprise  and  together  operated  a 
farm  in  Minnesota  for  two  years.  Mr.  Ellensohn  of  this  review  then  moved  to 
La  Crosse,  where  he  was  first  watchman  on  a steamboat  and  then  a wheat  buyer 
for  several  years.  In  1880  he  came  to  Cadott  and  was  for  five  years  thereafter 
employed  in  a mill  in  that  town,  later  working  in  the  woods  for  three  years.  At 
the  end  of  that  time  he  purchased  forty  acres  of  land  on  section  8,  Sigel  town- 
ship, and  there  he  has  since  engaged  in  truck  farming  with  gratifying  success. 
He  is  a stockholder  in  the  South  Sigel  Cheese  Factory  and  his  ability  is  known 
and  recognized  in  business  circles. 

In  La  Crosse,  Wisconsin,  November  25,  1873,  Mr.  Ellensohn  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Eliza  Helsapple,  a daughter  of  Leonard  Helsapple,  a wagon 
maker  of  Pennsylvania.  Air.  and  Mrs.  Ellensohn  have  become  the  parents  of 


360 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


five  children.  Eugene  married  Anna  Schuster  and  has  one  child.  He  engages 
in  farming  in  Sigel  township.  Archie  is  a contractor  and  road  builder  in  this 
township.  He  married  Miss  Margaret  Taylor  and  they  have  three  children. 
William  is  the  next  in  the  order  of  birth.  Cora  became  the  wife  of  Joseph 
Schwetz,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Sigel  township,  and  they  have  become 
the  parents  of  one  child.  The  other  member  of  this  family  is  a son,  Charles. 

Mr.  Ellensolm  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs.  He  has  for  many  years  been  active  in  public  afifairs  and 
has  held  various  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  as  town  clerk  for 
nine  years  and  for  a similar  period  of  time  as  a member  of  the  school  board. 
He  is  now  rendering  the  township  excellent  service  as  chairman,  his  work  in 
this  position  being  capable,  farsighted  and  reliable.  He  is  widelv  and  favorably 
known  in  Sigel  township,  for  his  integrity,  enterprise  and  personal  qualities  have 
gained  him  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


ROBERT  RITCHEY. 

Robert  Ritchey,  a substantial  farmer  and  a progressive  citizen  of  Delmar 
township,  was  born  in  Walworth  county,  Wisconsin,  February  24,  i860,  a son 
of  Patrick  and  Agnes  (Irving)  Ritchey,  the  former  born  in  Ireland  in  1826  and 
the  latter  in  Scotland  in  1809.  There  were  six  children  in  the  family:  William, 

deceased;  Catherine,  deceased;  Patrick,  a fruit  grower  in  Oregon;  Thomas,  a 
sheep  rancher  in  British  Columbia ; Robert ; and  James,  formerly  county  super- 
intendent of  schools  in  Outagamie  county,  and  now  a traveling  salesman  in  Penn- 
sylvania. The  parents  came  to  America  before  the  Civil  war  and  the  father 
enlisted  in  the  Union  army  at  the  last  call  for  volunteers.  After  he  was  mustered 
out  he  engaged  in  farming,  following  this  occupation  until  his  death  in  1874.  His 
wife  survived  him  ten  years. 

Robert  Ritchey  is  one  of  a family  of  six  children.  He  attended  public  school 
in  Outagamie  county  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age  and  then  began  working 
upon  neighboring  farms  as  a laborer.  When  he  was  twenty-five  he  moved  to 
Edson  township,  this  county,  and  in  1901  he  purchased  the  farm  on  section  30, 
township  29,  range  5 west  upon  which  he  now  resides.  Being  practical,  able  and 
energetic,  he  has  met  with  excellent  success  in  his  agricultural  pursuits  and  has 
now  one  of  the  best  equipped  and  most  carefully  managed  properties  in  the  town- 
ship. He  raises  all  kinds  of  grain  which  he  sells  in  the  local  market  and  he  is 
also  interested  in  stock-raising,  keeping  fifteen  head  of  cattle  and  three  horses. 
He  is  a stockholder  and  a director  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank  of  Boyd  and  in 
the  Independent  Harvester  Company  and  is  recognized  in  business  circles  as  a 
man  of  ability,  energy  and  capacity. 

At  Seymour,  Wisconsin,  on  the  27th  of  April,  1885,  Mr.  Ritchey  married 
Miss  Catherine  Mullen,  the  third  child  of  Patrick  and  Bridget  Mullen,  of  South 
Osborn,  Outagamie  county,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mullen  were  natives  of 
Ireland  but  came  to  America  in  1858  and  settled  in  New  York  state  where  Mr. 
Mullen  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  linen.  In  1862  they  moved  to  East  Troy, 
Walworth  county,  this  state,  where  they  resided  until  1865  when  they  began 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


361 


farming  on  one  hundred  and  eleven  acres  in  Osborn  township.  There  Mr.  Mullen 
died  in  1888,  his  wife  having  passed  away  in  1885.  Both  are  buried  in  the  South 
Osborn  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ritchey  became  the  parents  of  a daughter, 
Agnes,  who  died  in  infancy.  They  are  rearing  and  educating  Mrs.  Ritchey’s 
niece,  Catherine  McCormick,  who  has  made  her  home  with  then)  for  the  past 
nine  years. 

Mr.  Ritchey  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  independent 
in  his  political  beliefs,  supporting  men  and  measures  rather  than  parties.  He  is 
president  of  the  American  Society  of  Equity  and  has  held  various  public  positions 
of  trust  and  responsibility,  having  served  for  two  years  as  supervisor,  for  five 
years  as  clerk  of  school  district  No.  13,  and  for  the  past  five  years  as  chairman 
of  Delmar  township.  He  has  done  excellent  work  in  this  capacity  and  during  his 
term  of  office  a number  of  concrete  and  steel  bridges  have  been  erected  throughout 
the  township.  Mr.  Ritchey  is  always  to  be  found  among  the  leaders  in  any  pro- 
gressive public  project  and  his  influence  is  always  on  the  side  of  advancement  and 
reform.  In  consequence  he  is  well  and  favorably  known  in  the  community  which 
counts  him  among  its  most  progressive  and  representative  citizens. 


HENRY  H.  MOORE. 

Since  1905  Henry  H.  Moore  has  been  engaged  in  the  real-estate  and  insur- 
ance business  in  Stanley  and  has  been  very  successful  along  that  line,  building 
up  an  extensive  and  gratifying  clientele.  He  also  owns  a valuable  farm  in  Tay- 
lor county  and  has  other  important  interests.  He  was  born  in  Edson  township, 
this  county,  on  April  30,  1870,  and  is  a son  of  Jacob  and  Mary  (Reed)  Moore, 
the  former  of  whom  was  born  in  Massillon,  Ohio,  in  1828  and  the  latter  in 
Coshocton  county,  that  state,  in  1836.  The  father  for  many  years  engaged  as 
a harness  manufacturer  and  farmer  and  died  on  April  19,  1911.  He  came  to 
Wisconsin  about  1866,  making  this  state  his  home  until  his  demise.  He  was  a 
veteran  of  the  Civil  wrar,  having  served  for  two  and  one-half  years  as  a member 
of  the  Fifty-first  Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry.  The  mother  survives  and  makes  her 
home  with  the  subject  of  this  review  in  Stanley.  Henry  H.  Moore  is  one  of  a 
family  of  five  children : William  F.,  who  married  Mathilda  Cole,  by  whom  he  has 
six  children;  James  T.,  a hotel  proprietor  of  Polley,  Wisconsin,  who  married  Mar- 
garet Adams,  by  whom  he  has  four  children ; Edward  T.,  a barber  at  Stanley, 
who  married  Agnes  Spears,  by  whom  he  has  four  children ; Henry  IT.,  of  this 
review;  and  Olive,  who  married  Harry  W.  Cook,  a merchant  at  Conrath,  Wis- 
consin, by  whom  she  has  one  child. 

Henry  H.  Moore  attended  the  district  schools  of  Boyd,  Wisconsin,  until 
seventeen  years  of  age  and  then  for  six  years  followed  the  trade  of  a harness 
maker.  At  the  end  of  that  period  he  engaged  in  timber  cruising  for  the  North- 
western Lumber  Company  and  other  corporations,  being  so  engaged  for  nine 
years.  He  then  came  to  Stanley,  where  he  established  himself  in  the  real- 
estate  and  insurance  business  in  1905.  He  has  been'  very  successful  since  coming 
here,  handling  a number  of  important  transfers,  and  is  thoroughly  acquainted 
with  the  local  situation  as  regards  land  values.  He  has  ever  dealt  fairly  and 


362 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


squarely  with  his  customers  and  has  therefore  gained  a reputation  which  is 
highly  flattering  to  him. 

Mr.  Moore  owns  his  residence  and  also  holds  title  to  eighty  acres  of  partly 
improved  land  on  section  31,  township  32,  range  4,  in  Taylor  county.  Fraternally 
he  is  a Mason,  belonging  to  the  chapter.  He  finds  recreation  and  pleasure  in 
hunting  and  fishing  but  this  is  practically  his  only  diversion  from  his  arduous 
business  duties.  Public-spirited  and  progressive,  he  is  interested  in  all  that  affects 
the  community  and  is  ever  ready  to  support  any  worthy  undertaking  for  the 
promotion  of  the  interests  of  Stanley. 


HENRY  GANZEL. 

Henry  Ganzel,  proprietor  of  a popular  cafe  in  Boyd,  was  born  in  Outagamie 
county,  Wisconsin,  May  10,  1870.  He  is  a son  of  Chris  and  Dora  (Frick)  Ganzel, 
natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1831  and  the  latter  in  1827.  Chris  Gan- 
zel came  to  Wisconsin  in  1857  and  engaged  in  farming  and  in  the  operation  of  a 
hotel  until  his  death  which  occurred  in  1906.  His  wife  survived  for  some 
time,  dying  in  1907.  Henry  Ganzel  is  one  of  a family  of  ten  children.  He 
acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Edson  township,  this  county, 
laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterwards  worked  in  a factory 
and  engaged  in  various  occupations,  until  1890,  when  he  opened  the  Star  House 
in  Boyd,  which  he  conducted  until  1897.  He  then  opened  a cafe,  which  he  has 
since  been  very  successful  in  conducting. 

On  the  31st  of  July,  1894,  Mr.  Ganzel  married  Miss  Hannah  Yeager,  a daugh- 
ter of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  Yeager,  the  former  a farmer  and  saloon-keeper.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Ganzel  have  seven  children:  Harry  J. ; Felix  H. ; Leo  F. ; Christian  T. ; 
Minnie  J. ; Johanna  L. ; and  Louis  H. 

Mr.  Ganzel  is  a charter  member  of  the  Boyd  Lodge  No.  240  of  the  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  was  one  of 
the  early  settlers  in  Boyd  and  during  the  period  of  his  residence,  has  taken  a lead- 
ing part  in  the  promotion  of  many  movements  for  the  upbuilding  and  develop- 
ment of  the  city.  His  influence  is  found  always  on  the  side  of  right  and 
advancement  and  he  therefore  holds  the  high  respect  and  esteem  of  his  fellow 
citizens. 


NILS  GUSTAV  OLSON. 

Nils  Gustav  Olson,  engaged  in  the  real-estate  and  insurance  business  in 
Stanley,  where  he  has  made  his  home  since  1895,  was  born  December  17,  1863, 
at  Nedre  Eker,  Norway.  His  father.  Ole  Nilson,  was  born  at  Sigdal,  Norway, 
December  10,  1831,  and  passed  away  in  1896.  Fie  worked  at  the  same  place 
for  nearly  half  a century,  being  employed  as  foreman  in  the  woods  in  the  winter 
seasons  and  at  a sawmill  and  brickyards  during  the  summer  months.  His  long 
continuance  in  these  positions  indicated  clearly  his  capability  and  fidelity  to 
duty.  His  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Berthe  Marie  Rolfsen,  was  born 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


■m 


at  Nedre  Eker,  Norway,  in  1837,  and  died  in  1902,  in  the  same  house  in  which 
her  birth  occurred. 

Nils  G.  Olson  spent  his  youthful  days  in  his  native  land.  He  was  one  of  a 
family  of  eight  children,  five  of  whom  are  living.  At  an  early  age  he  started  in 
the  business  world,  being  assistant  to  his  father  and  clerk  in  a cooperative  store 
between  the  ages  of  twelve  and  fifteen  years.  When  a youth  of  sixteen  he 
became  a bookkeeper  and  so  continued  until  nineteen  years  of  age.  He  then 
came  to  the  United  States  in  1883  and  worked  at  Porters  Mills  for  seven  and  a 
half  years  at  common  labor,  as  scaler,  as  clerk  and  bookkeeper.  After  spending 
five  years  as  bookkeeper  in  Eau  Claire  he  came  to  Stanley  in  1895  and  has  since 
made  his  home  here,  being  engaged  in  bookkeeping  and  in  the  insurance  and  real- 
estate  business.  He  has  won  a substantial  measure  of  success  as  the  years  have 
gone  by  and  from  1895  until  1902  he  was  well  known  as  the  secretary  and  trea- 
surer of  the  Stanley  Manufacturing  Company. 

On  the  16th  of  November,  1887,  in  Eau  Claire,  Air.  Olson  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Marie  Christoffersen,  who  was  born  at  Holmestrand,  Norway, 
June  11,  1862.  Her  father,  Christofifer  Nelson,  was  born  in  Norway,  became  a 
sailor,  rose  to  the  rank  of  first  mate  and  was  shipwrecked  on  the  coast  of  Scot- 
land, November  25,  1864.  His  wife,  Anna  Elisa  Anderson,  was  born  at  Dahls- 
land,  Sweden,  in  March,  1833.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Olson  have  become  parents  of  four 
children:  Bertha  Elizabeth,  born  November  12,  1891,  and  now  a trained  nurse; 
Oscar  Gilbert,  born  May  23,  1896;  Norman  Walter,  born  February  15,  1899; 
and  Ralph  Mehvin,  born  December  14,  1901.  The  three  sons  are  yet  at  home. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Olson  are  members  of  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  are 
much  interested  in  the  moral  progress  of  the  community.  Mr,  Olson  has  mem- 
bership with  the  Sons  of  Norway  and  is  treasurer  and  trustee  of  that  organiza- 
tion. His  political  support  is  given  to  the  republican  party  and  for  two  years 
he  was  assessor  at  Stanley  and  for  two  years  was  village  trustee.  He  is  also 
serving  on  the  library  board  and  the  school  board  and  is  actively  interested  in 
all  that  pertains  to  the  political,  social,  intellectual  and  moral  welfare  of  the 
community.  His  efforts  have  been  of  direct  benefit  in  promoting  the  public  good 
and  his  worth  as  a man  and  citizen  is  widely  acknowledged. 


OTTO  PETERSON. 

Otto  Peterson,  one  of  the  prosperous  farmers  and  highly  respected  citizens 
of  Delmar  township,  was  born  in  Norway,  June  27,  1866.  He  is  a son  of  Peter 
and  Regina  Petero  (Amenson)  Christianson,  also  natives  of  that  country,  the 
former  born  in  1840,  and  the  latter  in  1835.  The  father  still  resides  in  Norway, 
having  survived  his  wife  since  June  21,  1913.  They  became  the  parents  of  eight 
children,  six  of  whom  are  still  living:  Otto,  Christian,  Olaf,  Ella,  Annie  and 
Regina. 

Otto  Peterson  attended  public  school  in  Norway  until  he  was  fifteen  years 
of  age,  and  then  began  working  as  a farm  laborer,  continuing  this  for  one  year. 
For  six  years  afterwards  he  was  an  engineer  in  a mill,  but  resigned  this  posi- 
tion at  the  end  of  that  time  in  order  to  come  to  America.  He  settled  in  Eau 


864 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Claire,  this  state,  in  1892,  and  for  a time,  spent  the  summers  working  in  a saw- 
mill and  the  winters  in  the  lumber  woods.  In  1898  he  moved  to  Stanley  and 
became  connected  with  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company,  remaining  in  the 
employ  of  that  corporation  until  1901.  In  that  year  he  moved  upon  a farm  of 
eighty  acres,  which  he  had  purchased  in  1899  and  upon  this  property  he  has  since 
resided.  He  engages  in  dairying  and  stock-raising,  keeping  nineteen  head  of  pure- 
blood  Holstein  cattle  and  five  horses.  Mr.  Peterson  is  a stockholder  in  the 
Stanley  Dairy  and  Warehouse  Company,  and  in  the  Inter-County  Fair  Associa- 
tion and  is  a member  of  the  Inter-County  Holstein  Cattle  Breeders’  Association, 
and  is  interested  and  active  in  all  progressive  public  or  business  movements. 

Mr.  Peterson  married  Mrs.  Karen  (Mattson)  ITigholt,  a daughter  of  Matt 
Johnson,  a farmer  in  Minnesota  and  a widow  of  a Mr.  Higholt,  who  was  killed 
while  employed  by  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company.  By  her  first  union  Mrs. 
Peterson  had  eight  children,  Oscar,  Magnus,  John,  Henry,  Gilbert,  Emma,  Ole, 
and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peterson  have  two  children,  Peter 
and  Katherine. 

Mr.  Peterson  is  a member  of  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in 
his  political  beliefs. 

He  served  as  supervisor  of  Delmar  township  and  as  clerk  of  school  district 
No.  11,  proving  himself  a reliable  and  conscientious  official.  In  all  business  and 
personal  relations  he  is  thorough,  straightforward  and  honorable,  and  he  enjoys 
to  the  fullest  extent  the  confidence  and  good-will  of  those  who  know  him. 


MARTIN  A.  CHRISTENSEN. 


Martin  A.  Christensen,  proprietor  of  a large  garage  in  Stanley,  was  born 
near  Soldiers’  Grove,  Wisconsin,  on  the  9th  of  June,  1873,  a son  of  Andrew  and 
Anna  (Hiller)  Christensen,  natives  of  Norway,  both  born  in  1847.  The  father 
came  to  Wisconsin  when  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age  and  in  the  state  followed 
the  blacksmith’s  and  machinist’s  trades  until  his  death  in  1893.  His  wife  has  also 
passed  away,  her  death  having  occurred  in  1910.  To  their  union  were  born 
eleven  children : Chris,  Ole,  Martin,  John,  Thomas,  Louis,  Bertha,  Albert,  Henry, 
Josephine,  and  Ida. 

Martin  A.  Christensen  attended  district  school  in  Crawford  county  until  he 
was  fourteen  years  of  age  and  then  took  a one-year  business  course  in  Brecken- 
ridge  College.  He  afterwards  learned  the  blacksmith’s  and  machinist’s  trades 
from  his  father,  under  whom  he  worked  until  the  latter’s  death  in  1893.  Mr. 
Christensen  of  this  review  came  to  Stanley  in  1903  and  here  established  a black- 
smith and  machine  shop  of  his  own,  conducting  it  with  great  success  until  the 
fire  of  1906,  which  practically  destroyed  the  city,  and  which  left  Mr.  Christensen 
practically  penniless.  In  order  to  retrieve  his  fortunes  he  moved  to  Spring  Valley, 
Minnesota,  and  during  his  four  years  stay  there  perfected  and  patented  a neck 
yoke  to  be  used  on  buggies,  a very  useful  article  which  has  had  an  extended  sale. 
Mr.  Christensen  returned  to  Stanley  in  1911  and  established  a garage  there  which 
he  has  since  conducted.  He  has  a large  patronage  and  is  popular  in  business  cir- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


365 


cles,  his  methods  being  at  all  times  straightforward  and  his  integrity  beyond 
question. 

At  Soldiers’  Grove,  Wisconsin,  August  17,  1897,  Mr.  Christensen  married 
Miss  Rachel  Aspensen,  a daughter  of  Tolab  and  Ingalor  (Mickelsen)  Aspensen 
of  Crawford  county.  The  father  passed  away  in  1909  at  the  age  of  seventy-eight 
and  his  wife  survives  him,  being  sixty-eight  years  of  age.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Chris- 
tensen are  the  parents  of  three  children : Arthur  F.,  who  was  born  October 

30,  1898;  Adrian  L.,  born  January  3,  1900;  and  Irving  A.,  whose  birth  occurred 
May  15,  1 9 1 1 - 

Mr.  Christensen  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs,  voting  for  the  men 
and  measures  which  he  considers  best  for  the  welfare  of  the  community  without 
regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen 
of  America.  In  all  the  relations  of  life  he  has  been  found  upright,  straightfor- 
ward and  honorable  and  he  holds  the  respect  and  regard  of  all  who  know  him. 


CHARLES  W.  GIAUGUE. 

Charles  W.  Giaugue,  a representative  of  a well  known  pioneer  family  of 
Chippewa  county  and  prominently  connected  with  business  interests  of  Stanley 
as  the  proprietor  of  a sawmill  and  as  a successful  bee  fancier,  was  born  in  Edson 
township,  February  10,  1870.  He  is  a son  of  David  and  Elizabeth  (Daniels) 
Giaugue,  natives  of  Holmes  county,  Ohio,  the  former  born  in  1841  and  the  latter 
in  1843.  The  father  moved  to  Chippewa  county  in  1869  and  purchased  in  Edson 
township  a tract  of  land  for  which  he  paid  a dollar  and  a quarter  per  acre. 
Upon  it  he  built  a log  cabin  in  which  he  resided  for  many  years,  engaging  in 
general  farming  and  stock-raising.  He  retired  from  active  life  in  1901  and 
now  makes  his  home  in  Stanley.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  seven 
children,  Charles  W.,  Emma,  Carrie,  Edna,  David;  Jr.,  Eva  and  Edith. 

Charles  W.  Giaugue  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Edson 
township,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen.  Before  and  after  leaving 
school  he  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  but  at  the  age  of 
twenty-one  became  a lumber  contractor.  He  continued  at  this  occupation  until 
1897,  at  which  time  he  moved  to  Stanley  and  built  a sawmill  which  he  has  since 
conducted  successfully.  In  addition  to  this  he  is  a bee  fancier  and  raiser  of 
considerable  reputation  throughout  the  county,  his  hives  containing  only  pure 
bred  Italian  and  Caucasian  bees.  He  is  a progressive  and  successful  business 
man,  possessing  the  faculty  of  carrying  forward  to  successful  completion  what- 
ever he  undertakes  and  he  is  well  known  in  Stanley  and  its  vicinity.  He  is  a 
stockholder  in  the  Farmers  & Merchants  State  Bank  and  in  the  Wisconsin 
National  Life  Insurance  Company  of  Oshkosh  and  besides  his  residence  and 
sawmill  in  Stanley  owns  also  twenty  acres  of  land  on  section  30,  range  29,  Delmar 
township. 

At  Thorp,  Wisconsin,  May  2,  1899,  Mr.  Giaugue  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Law- 
rence, a daughter  of  Samuel  and  Mary  Lawrence,  of  Akron,  Ohio.  Mr.  Giaugue 
is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the 
Knights  of  Pythias  and  is  a Presbyterian  in  his  religious  views.  He  gives  his 


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PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  has  made  for  himself  a creditable 
position  in  business  circles  and  is  highly  esteemed  and  respected  in  Chippewa 
county  by  reason  of  the  progressive  spirit  and  unfaltering  integrity  which  he  has 
displayed  in  all  of  his  business  transactions. 


WILLIAM  SATTLER. 

Since  1897  William  Sattler  has  conducted  the  Royal  Hotel  in  Stanley  and 
during  that  time  has  become  well  known  in  business  circles  of  the  city  and 
vicinity  as  an  energetic,  reliable  and  capable  business  man.  He  was  born  in 
Foil  du  Lac  county,  May  14,  1865,  and  is  a son  of  John  M.  and  Christina  (Roth- 
man) Sattler,  natives  of  Germany,  both  born  in  183a.  The  parents  came  to  Wis- 
consin about  1853  and  the  father  followed  farming  here  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1908.  He  had  survived  his  wife  four  years.  To  their  union  were 
born  seven  children,  Margaret,  Philip,  John,  Henry,  William,  Julius  and  Anna. 

William  Sattler  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Calumet  Har- 
bor, Fond  du  Lac  county,  attending  until  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  He  after- 
ward spent  eight  years  assisting  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  at  the 
end  of  that  time  moved  to  Breckenridge,  Minnesota,  where  he  opened  a res- 
taurant. This  he  conducted  successfully  for  two  years  and  a half,  after  which 
he  engaged  in  the  saloon  business  until  1897.  In  that  year  he  came  to  Stanley 
and  opened  the  Royal  Hotel,  which  he  has  since  operated.  He  has  made  this 
an  up-to-date  hostelry  in  every  particular,  for  he  understands  hotel  keeping  in 
principle  and  detail  and  has  provided  the  place  with  everything  necessary  for 
the  comfort  and  convenience  of  its  guests.  In  addition  he  owns  valuable  resi- 
dence and  business  property  in  Polleytown  and  a saloon  in  Thorp. 

Mr.  Sattler  has  been  twice  married.  In  Breckenridge,  Minnesota,  he  wedded 
Miss  Lizzie  McCann,  who  passed  away  thirteen  months  afterward.  In  1894, 
in  Thorp,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Sattler  married  Mrs.  Lena  Bandlrob,  who  by  her 
former  marriage  was  the  mother  of  two  children,  John  and  Frank.  The  former 
is  a hotel  clerk.  He  married  Miss  Mazie  Ryan  and  they  are  the  parents  of  a 
daughter,  Marian.  Mr.  Sattler  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  con- 
nected fraternally  with  the  Woodmen  of  the  World.  He  is  a democrat  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  was  for  thirteen  years  a member  of  the  town  council  and  for 
one  year  on  the  county  board.  He  is  respected  and  esteemed  in  Stanley  as  a 
progressive  citizen  and  a capable  business  man. 


CHARLES  IT.  ERDMAN,  M.  D. 

Dr.  Charles  H.  Erdman,  a well  known  physician  and  surgeon  of  Stanley 
where  he  has  been  engaged  in  general  practice  since  1893,  was  born  in  Augusta, 
this  state,  March  6,  1872,  a son  of  Christof  and  Rose  (Seehafer)  Erdman,  natives 
of  Germany.  The  father  was  born  in  1825  and  came  to  America  at  the  age  of 
thirty,  following  farming  near  Augusta  until  his  death  in  1900.  His  wife  was 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


367 


born  in  1834  and  died  in  1891.  In  their  family  were  nine  children:  August  G., 

Annie,  Bertha,  Ernest  W.,  Julius,  Charles  H.,  Amil  G.,  Edwin  J.,  and  Alvina  A. 

Dr.  Erdman  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Eau  Claire 
county  and  he  began  his  medical  course  at  Starling  Medical  College  at  Columbus, 
Ohio.  He  afterward  entered  the  medical  department  of  the  University  of  Ten- 
nessee, from  which  he  was  graduated,  M.  D.,  in  1893.  He  had  begun  the  practice 
of  medicine  in  Stanley  in  1893  and  has  continued  here  since  that  time,  being 
now  in  control  of  an  important  and  growing  patronage.  He  is  well  known  as  a 
reliable  and  competent  physician  and  one  who  keeps  in  touch  with  the  most 
advanced  thought  of  the  profession. 

On  the  20th  of  June,  1894,  at  Stanley,  Dr.  Erdman  married  Miss  Emma 
Sargent,  a daughter  of  James  H.  and  Julia  A.  (Newton)  Sargent  of  that  city. 
Dr.  Erdman  is  connected  with  the  Masonic  chapter,  the  Modern  Woodmen  of 
America,  the  Knights  of  the  Maccabees,  the  Order  of  Beavers,  the  Equitable 
Fraternal  Union,  the  Fraternal  Reserve  and  the  Royal  Neighbors,  and  is  well 
and  favorably  known  in  fraternal  circles.  He  is  an  elder  in  the  Presbyterian 
church  and  a progressive  republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  has  held  various 
important  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  acting  as  building  inspector  at 
the  time  when  the  new  high  school  was  erected  in  Stanley,  as  trustee  and  as  a 
member  of  the  board  of  aldermen.  For  four  years  he  did  excellent  work  as  county 
physician  and  for  ten  years  he  was  health  officer  of  the  city,  discharging  his  duties 
in  a conscientious  and  thorough  manner.  At  present  aside  from  his  large  private 
practice  he  is  also  surgeon  for  the  Soo  line.  He  is  recognized  as  one  of  the 
leading  members  of  his  profession  in  his  part  of  the  county,  and  he  holds  the 
confidence  of  the  local  public  and  the  esteem  and  regard  of  his  brethren  of  the 
medical  fraternity. 


EDWARD  E.  WOLTER. 

Among  the  citizens  of  Cadott  who  have  attained  an  honorable  place  in  the 
community  through  their  acknowledged  ability  and  personal  worth  is  numbered 
Edward  E.  Wolter,  who  since  1909  has  been  the  proprietor  of  a well  managed 
and  profitable  hardware  concern.  He  was  born  in  Milford  township,  Sauk 
county,  February  22,  1878,  a son  of  William  and  Dealk  R.  (Baumgarten)  Wolter, 
natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1848  and  the  latter  in  1850.  The  father 
is  now  engaged  in  farming  in  the  vicinity  of  Reedsburg,  Wisconsin.  In  this 
family  were  nine  children : Amanda,  Edward,  Albert,  Elsa,  Gilbert,  Olga,  Amo, 
and  two  who  died  in  infancy. 

Edward  E.  Wolter  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  Sauk 
county,  attending  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward  worked  in 
a gristmill  until  he  was  eighteen  and  then  turned  his  attention  to  the  hardware 
business,  becoming  an  employe  of  E.  L.  Schultz  in  Columbus.  He  afterwards 
conducted  hardware  stores  in  various  parts  of  Wisconsin  and  Michigan  until 
1909,  when  he  moved  into  Cadott  and  opened  his  present  establishment.  His 
stock  is  valued  at  ten  thousand  dollars  and  is  complete  in  every  particular,  Mr. 
Wolter’s  long  experience  in  the  hardware  business  having  given  him  an  exhaustive 


368 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


knowledge  of  the  demands  of  the  trade.  He  controls  an  important  and  repres- 
entative patronage,  for  his  business  methods  are  at  all  times  straightforward  and 
honorable  and  his  integrity  beyond  question. 

In  Houghton,  Michigan,  on  the  5th  of  September,  1900,  Mr.  Wolter  married 
Miss  Eleanore  Pumerrille,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Frank  Pumerrille,  the 
former  a surveyor  for  the  Copper  Range  Railroad  Company.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Wolter  became  the  parents  of  five  children,  Phoebe  Lucy  Ann,  Franklin  Weston 
and  three  who  died  in  infancy.  Mr.  Wolter  is  connected  fraternally  with  the 
Knights  of  Pythias,  the  United  Commercial  Travelers  and  the  Equitable  Fra- 
ternal Union.  He  is  a member  of  the  Episcopal  church  and  is  independent  in  his 
political  views.  He  is  an  enterprising  and  progressive  citizen,  interested  in  his 
business  and  in  public  affairs,  and  during  his  residence  in  Cadott  he  has  made  many 
warm  friends. 


FRANCIS  M.  HOLINBECK. 

General  agricultural  pursuits  and  stock-raising  engage  the  attention  of  Francis 
M.  Holinbeck,  a substantial  farmer  and  representative  citizen  of  Delmar  town- 
ship, whose  exceptional  career  furnishes  many  splendid  examples  of  the  value 
of  determination  and  perseverance  in  the  attainment  of  success.  He  is,  moreover, 
entitled  to  a place  in  this  volume  as  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war,  having  served 
for  three  years  during  that  conflict  as  a member  of  a Wisconsin  cavalry  regiment. 
He  was  born  in  Schoharie  county,  New  York,  April  13,  1844,  and  is  a son  of 
Ames  J.  and  Rebecca  A.  (Hall)  Holinbeck,  also  natives  of  the  Empire  state,  the 
former  born  in  1820  and  the  latter  in  1822.  The  father  was  a soldier  in  the 
Union  army  during  the  Civil  war  and  during  the  battle  of  Atlanta,  Georgia,  was 
wounded  and  taken  prisoner.  He  died  in  Andersonville  prison  before  the  close 
of  hostilities.  His  wife  has  also  passed  away,  her  death  having  occurred  in  1881. 
To  their  union  were  born  nine  children:  Francis  M.,  of  this  review;  Henry  D. ; 

Fedelia;  Miranda  A.;  Geoffrey;  Minnie  J.;  and  Giles  M.  and  Lily  J.,  deceased. 
There  was  also  another  child  who  has  passed  away. 

Francis  M.  Holinbeck  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  New 
York  state  which  he  attended  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  then 
accompanied  his  parents  to  Wisconsin  and  with  them  settled  in  Monroe  county, 
where  he  grew  to  manhood  among  pioneer  conditions.  In  1862  he  enlisted  in 
Company  A,  Third  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Cavalry,  for  service  in  the  Civil  war 
and  he  was  at  the  front  for  three  years,  one  month  and  nine  days.  He  was 
never  wounded  nor  taken  sick  until  1863,  when  he  was  attacked  by  malarial  fever, 
from  which  he  soon  recovered.  He  received  his  honorable  discharge  at  Fort 
Leavenworth,  Kansas,  on  May  9,  1865,  and  immediately  afterward  returned  to 
Monroe  county.  His  ill  health,  however,  prevented  him  from  engaging  in  any 
continuous  occupation  and  he  was  obliged  to  work  at  odd  jobs  for  seven  years 
thereafter.  In  1872  he  learned  the  brick  and  stonemason’s  trade  and  continued 
active  at  it  in  various  parts  of  the  state  until  1911.  He  was  a contractor  for 
many  years  and  erected  several  of  the  largest  buildings  in  Hudson,  Wisconsin. 
He  resided  also  for  some  time  in  New  Richmond,  and  there  his  house  and  all  of 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


369 


his  other  property  were  destroyed  by  a tornado  and  two  of  his  children  were 
killed  and  his  wife  permanently  crippled.  Mr.  Holinbeck  was  left  practically 
penniless  after  this  tragedy  but  with  rare  courage  and  resolution  he  moved  to 
Chippewa  county,  determined  to  make  a new  start  in  life.  He  purchased  eighty 
acres  of  land  on  section  12,  township  29,  range  5 west,  this  county,  turning  his 
attention  to  farming.  In  this  occupation  he  has  met  with  gratifying  and  well 
deserved  success,  owning  today  one  of  the  finest  agricultural  properties  in  his 
section  of  the  county.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Otter  Creek  Telephone  Company 
and  his  ability  is  widely  recognized  in  business  circles. 

On  the  15th  of  September,  1877,  Mr.  Holinbeck  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Ida  Brown,  a daughter  of  J.  W.  Brown,  a carpenter  and  builder  of  Monroe 
county.  They  became  the  parents  of  three  children.  Frank  J.  is  associated  with 
his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  farm.  He  married  Miss  Gertie  Wisner  and  they 
have  five  children,  Claire  L.,  Glenn  L.,  Honora  W.,  Donald  C.  and  Ethel  M. 
Mr.  Holinbeck’s  two  other  children,  Mason  J.  and  Archie  J.,  were  killed  in  the 
tornado.  Mr.  Holinbeck  is  an  elder  in  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Stanley  and  is 
a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  His  success  is  entirely  the  result  of  his  own 
energy  and  enterprise  and  his  high  standing  in  agricultural  and  business  circles 
has  been  attained  through  continued  and  well  directed  labor. 


AUGUST  PI.  MASON. 

Closely  identified  with  various  important  business  and  corporate  interests, 
August  H.  Mason  has  for  many  years  made  his  influence  felt  as  a progressive 
factor  in  the  development  of  Chippewa  Falls,  which  owes  to  him  the  foundation 
and  upbuilding  of  many  of  its  most  representative  business  institutions.  A man 
of  force,  experience  and  capacity,  of  unusual  organizing  and  executive  ability, 
he  has  by  the  exercise  of  these  qualities  become  one  of  the  most  prominent  men 
in  the  city,  well  known  in  financial  circles  as  president  of  the  First  National  Bank 
and  in  the  business  field  as  founder  of  a large  hardware  and  furniture  store  and 
as  founder  and  president  of  the  Mason  Shoe  Manufacturing  Company. 

Mr.  Mason  was  born  in  Germany,  June  20,  1848,  and  is  a son  of  Hubert 
and  Caroline  Mason.  The  parents  came  to  America  and  settled  in  Green  Bay, 
Wisconsin,  whence  in  1858  they  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  the  father 
engaged  in  business.  He  was  at  one  time  justice  of  the  peace  in  that  city,  and 
well  and  favorably  known  in  official  and  business  circles.  His  death  occurred 
in  1870  and  he  was  survived  by  his  wife  two  years.  Both  are  buried  in  the 
Catholic  cemetery. 

August  H.  Mason  acquired  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls  and,  laying  aside 
his  books  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  went  into  the  northern  woods,  where  he 
worked  as  a lumberman  by  the  month  for  some  time.  He  later  filled  lumber  con- 
contracts  and,  his  prosperity  increasing,  in  1870  he  established  himself  in  the 
lumber  business  at  Chippewa  Falls,  securing  a large  and  representative  patronage 
and  building  up,  in  the  course  of  years,  one  of  the  leading  industrial  enterprises 
in  the  city.  In  1901  Mr.  Mason  purchased  property  on  Bridge  street,  with  two 
hundred  feet  frontage,  and  here  he  established  a large  hardware  and  furniture 


370 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


concern,  in  which  he  is  still  interested.  By  able  management,  careful  supervision 
of  details  and  progressive  methods  he  has  made  this  a profitable  and  growing 
enterprise  and  one  which  is  an  important  addition  to  the  commercial  resources 
of  the  city.  Mr.  Mason  is  also  president  of  the  Mason  Shoe  Manufacturing 
Company,  which  he  founded  and  the  business  of  which  he  built  up  to  its  present 
proportions.  He  has  other  important  commercial,  industrial  and  financial  con- 
nections, his  interests  extending  to  many  fields.  Since  1909  he  has  been  president 
of  the  First  National  Bank  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  in  this  connection  his  excellent 
business  and  executive  ability  have  been  called  forth  and  he  has  proved  himself 
a capable  director  of  the  destinies  of  an  institution  which  is  one  of  the  oldest  and 
most  reliable  of  its  kind  in  the  state.  In  the  course  of  his  business  career  Mr. 
Mason  has  made  many  judicious  investments,  mostly  in  timber  and  farming  lands, 
and  he  is  today  one  of  the  most  extensive  property  owners  in  Chippewa  county. 
Upon  his  farms  he  has  made  substantial  improvements,  erecting  good  buildings 
and  installing  labor-saving  machinery,  and  his  property  has  proved  an  important 
source  of  revenue  to  him. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  in  July,  1870,  Mr.  Mason  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Elizabeth  Linenkamp,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Linenkamp  of  Muscatine, 
Iowa;  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mason  have  become  the  parents  of  six  children:  Albert, 
who  is  manager  of  his  father's  hardware  and  furniture  store;  Bernard,  manager 
of  the  Mason  Shoe  Manufacturing  Company;  John,  superintendent  of  the  Rice 
Lake  Lumber  Company ; Annie,  a graduate  of  the  St.  Paul  academy ; Agnes,  a 
graduate  of  the  same  institution;  and  August,  Jr.,  who  has  completed  his  course 
in  the  Chippewa  high  school. 

Mr.  Mason  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected 
fraternally  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus.  A stanch  democrat,  he  takes  an 
intelligent  interest  in  community  affairs  but  has  never  sought  nor  desired  public 
office.  He  is  without  doubt  one  of  the  leading  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls 
and  he  owes  his  success  entirely  to  his  own  well  directed  efforts  and  his  com- 
manding ability.  During  the  years  he  has  resided  here  his  contributions  to  gen- 
eral development  have  been  many  and  substantial  and  his  name  has  come  to  be 
regarded  as  synonymous  with  advancement  and  progress. 


A.  C.  F.  BARTZ. 

Agriculturist,  apiarist,  merchant,  manufacturer  and  inventor,  A.  C.  F.  Bartz, 
a native  of  Germany,  has  become  one  of  the  foremost  citizens  of  Lhippewa 
county.  Although  he  has  attained  individual  success  and  prosperity,  his  life 
record  is  of  even  greater  interest  in  what  he  has  accomplished  in  promoting  vari- 
ous interests  of  the  locality  in  which  he  resides.  Born  in  the  fatherland  on  July 
29,  1859,  he  was  there  educated  in  the  common  schools  and  subsequently  learned 
the  trade  of  blacksmith,  also  becoming  a millwright  later  on.  He  continued  in 
these  two  occupations  in  his  native  land  until  1883,  when  he  crossed  the  Atlantic 
in  order  to  profit  by  the  opportunities  which  he  had  heard  the  American  middle 
west  was  holding  out  to  those  who  would  embrace  them.  After  coming  to  this 
country  and  settling  in  Chippewa  Falls  he  was  engaged  in  the  blacksmith’s  trade 


"N 


y 


\ 


A.  C.  F.  BARTZ 


MRS.  A.  C.  F.  BARTZ 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


375 


until  1898,  in  which  year  he  moved  on  to  forty  acres  of  unbroken  land  on  section 
18.  township  31,  range  7.  There  he  engaged  in  bee  culture  and  for  years  his 
Keystone  honey  was  famous  in  New  York  and  Chicago  markets,  always  com- 
manding one  or  two  cents  more  per  pound  than  the  ordinary  varieties.  He  is 
still  engaged  in  bee-keeping,  having  about  eighty  stands.  He  recently  sold  one 
hundred  stands  to  John  Danskin,  his  son-in-law,  who  makes  his  home  on  this 
place.  During  the  most  productive  period  Mr.  Bartz  sold  from  fifteen  hundred 
to  two  thousand  dollars  worth  of  honey  per  year.  Mr.  Bartz  also  has  discovered 
the  secret — although  to  the  present  time  bee-keepers  claim  it  impossible — of  keep- 
ing bees  from  swarming  during  the  production  of  comb  honey. 

Mr.  Bartz  also  established  a store  here,  which  he  still  conducts  with  gratifying 
results.  He  carries  a comprehensive  line  of  reliable  goods  and  has  therefore 
a representative  and  extensive  trade.  Several  years  before  he  located  here  a 
postoffice  had  been  established  called  Keystone  and  for  nine  years  Mr.  Bartz 
served  as  postmaster,  holding  that  office  until  rural  free  delivery  was  established. 
In  1908  Mr.  Bartz  established  an  overall  factory,  erecting  a building  twenty  by 
forty  feet,  two  stories  in  height,  with  a basement.  In  the  basement  is  located  a 
twelve  horse  power  water  wheel  supplied  from  a dam  which  Mr.  Bartz  built  on 
what  he  calls  “Wet  Weather"  stream.  When  the  water  fails  him  he  connects  his 
machinery  with  a four  horse  power  gasoline  engine  which  he  has  installed.  The 
first  floor  is  used  as  a stock  room  and  is  filled  with  bolts  of  material  purchased 
from  eastern  and  southern  mills.  The  cutting  room,  equipped  with  dies  and  pat- 
terns, is  also  located  on  this  floor.  The  second  floor  is  equipped  with  six  machines 
on  which  the  goods  are  made.  One  machine  works  automatically,  making  but- 
ton holes,  cutting  and  stitching  the  button  holes  and  then  stops.  Another  machine 
sews  two  rows  of  stitching,  folds  the  goods  and  makes  an  interlocking  seam. 
Another  machine  puts  on  the  buttons,  and  there  are  also  ordinary  sewing  machines. 
Six  persons  are  employed  in  the  factory,  which  has  a capacity  of  twelve  dozen 
pairs  per  day.  They  manufacture  overalls,  jackets  and  shirts,  turning  out  a fine 
quality  of  goods,  both  as  to  material  and  workmanship.  The  factory  is  a cor- 
poration and  known  as  the  K.  S.  Manufacturing  Company.  Mr.  Bartz  holds  the 
office  of  president  and  is  connected  with  the  selling  end  of  the  business.  He  has 
built  two  residences  on  his  place,  which  is  well  improved  with  other  buildings, 
including  his  store,  factory,  apiary  and  substantial  barns.  As  the  land  is  cleared 
he  gives  more  and  more  attention  to  farming.  Mr.  Bartz  also  is  gifted  with  con- 
siderable inventive  genius  and  in  a flattering  way  has  been  called  by  one  of  the 
local  papers  “the  Dutch-Yankee.”  He  has  patented  a steel  wire  spring  device 
attached  to  the  suspenders  on  the  overalls  to  relieve  the  strain  on  the  buttons. 
Along  these  many  lines  Mr.  Bartz  has  been  successful  and  has  in  that  way  done 
much  toward  building  up  his  locality  and  making  possible  the  prosperous  con- 
ditions which  now  prevail. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Bartz  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Ida  Woller,  a 
native  of  Germany.  They  were  already  acquainted  and  engaged  in  the  fatherland 
and  she  followed  him  to  this  country  a year  or  two  after  he  had  made  settlement 
here.  They  have  eight  living  children:  Clara,  who  married  John  Danskin.  and 
they  make  their  home  with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bartz:  and  Emma,  Frieda,  Cordelia. 
Walter,  Otto,  Gertrude  and  Charlotte,  all  at  home.  Another  son,  Paul,  died  in 
1912  at  the  age  of  thirteen  years.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bartz  and  family  are  members 

Vo  1.  11-^2  0 


376 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  the  Lutheran  church.  Mr.  Bartz  has  ever  taken  a deep  interest  in  the  general 
welfare  and  while  residing  in  Chippewa  Falls  served  as  a member  of  the  city 
council.  Since  he  has  made  the  farm  his  home  he  has  also  held  the  office  of 
township  treasurer  for  three  terms.  When  Keystone  was  still  a postoffice  he 
served  for  nine  years  as  postmaster.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Bartz  are  highly  esteemed  and 
respected  by  all  who  know  them  and  there  is  none  who  begrudge  their  prosperity, 
for  it  is  well  merited  and  has  been  worthily  won. 


PETER  PAUL. 

Peter  Paul,  a prosperous  farmer  of  Delmar  township,  was  born  in  Presque 
Isle,  Michigan,  June  29,  1873,  and  is  a son  of  Julius  and  Katie  (daymen)  Paul, 
natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1839  and  the  latter  in  1847.  The  father 
came  to  America  in  middle  life  and  settled  in  Michigan,  where  he  engaged  in 
farming.  He  and  his  wife  are  now  residents  of  Delmar  township.  They  were 
parents  of  twelve  children,  eight  of  whom  are  still  living. 

Peter  Paul  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Michigan,  but  his 
advantages  along  this  line  were  extremely  limited,  as  he  attended  classes  for 
only  fifteen  days.  His  childhood  was  spent  assisting  his  father  with  the  work 
of  the  homestead  and  he  continued  this  until  he  was  twenty-two  years  of  age. 
He  then  secured  a position  in  a sawmill  and  a stone  quarry  in  Michigan,  and 
he  there  remained  until  1904,  when  he  took  up  his  residence  in  Delmar  town- 
ship, buying  forty  acres  of  valuable  land  on  section  9,  township  29,  range  5 west. 
This  property  he  has  since  operated  and  he  has  been  very  successful  in  his  stock- 
raising  and  dairy  interests,  both  being  profitable  sources  of  income  to  him. 

On  the  10th  of  June,  1895,  at  Presque  Isle,  Michigan,  Mr.  Paul  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Rosie  Glentz,  a daughter  of  John  Glentz,  a farmer  in  that 
locality.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Paul  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children:  John  H., 
Julius,  Peter,  Jr.,  Clarence  and  Bertha.  Mr.  Paul  is  a member  of  the  Roman 
Catholic  church  and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  serving  at  the  present 
time  as  a member  of  the  school  board.  He  is  an  upright  man  interested  not 
only  in  the  financial,  but  also  in  the  moral  standing  of  the  community  and  has 
acquired  the  confidence  and  respect  of  his  neighbors,  both  as  a substantial  farmer 
and  a useful  citizen. 


CHARLES  G.  STRONG. 

The  advanced  and  enlightened  methods  which  have  of  late  years  practically 
revolutionized  farming  pursuits  find  a worthy  exponent  in  Charles  G.  Strong, 
who  owns  an  excellent  dairy  farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  17, 
Lafayette  township,  and  in  its  operation  has  carried  out  many  original  and  prac- 
tical ideas  most  successfully.  He  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  since 
1877  but  was  born  in  Camp  Douglas,  Wisconsin,  his  parents  being  Seymour  B. 
•and  Alice  (Gardener)  Strong.  The  father  was  a civil  engineer  and  laid  the  first 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEW  A COUNTY 


377 


railroad  into  Chippewa  Falls,  this  being  the  Chippewa  & Western,  or  the  old 
Wisconsin  Central  Railroad.  He  also  conducted  a large  department  store  in 
Chippewa  Falls  and  was  a farmer  and  an  extensive  cattle  breeder,  his  interests 
extending  to  many  Helds.  He  was  prominent  in  community  affairs  and  especially 
active  in  the  cause  of  education,  serving  for  a number  of  year's  as  president  of  the 
school  board.  He  died  in  Chippewa  Falls  in  1899.  at  the  age  of  fifty-five,  and  in 
his  passing  the  community  lost  one  of  its  most  public-spirited  and  representative 
citizens. 

Charles  G.  Strong  acquired  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  was  graduated 
from  high  school  in  1893.  He  afterward  associated  himself  with  his  father  in 
the  general  merchandise  business,  following  this  occupation  for  three  years. 
In  1896  he  turned  his  attention  to  dairy  farming,  buying  thirty-six  acres  on 
section  17,  Lafayette  township.  He  has  since  increased  his  holdings  to  their 
present  extent  and  has  within  a comparatively  short  time  made  his  farm  one  of 
the  finest  and  best  improved  in  this  locality.  He  has  erected  a barn  which  is 
circular  in  shape,  containing  in  the  center  the  deepest  silo  in  Chippewa  county — - 
a new  idea  which  when  practically  carried  out  adds  greatly  to  the  convenience 
in  caring  for  the  stock.  Mr.  Strong  has  erected  other  substantial  buildings  upon 
his  farm,  has  installed  labor-saving  machinery  and  has  neglected  nothing  which 
he  believes  will  add  to  its  value  or  attractive  appearance. 

Mr.  Strong  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fel- 
lows and  the  Fraternal  Reserve  Association.  He  is  a member  of  the  First  Pres- 
byterian church  and  a progressive  in  his  political  views.  He  has  served  as  aider- 
man  of  Chippewa  Falls  for  one  term.  He  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  pro- 
gressive and  able  farmers  in  his  locality  and  as  a man  of  enterprise,  reliability  and 
integrity  in  business  relations  and  his  work  has  marked  a distinct  advance  in 
methods  of  modern  farm  operation. 


LEMORE  CROFT. 

A fine  farm  of  eighty  acres,  lying  on  section  36,  Howard  township,  is  the 
property  of  Lemore  Croft  and  its  attractive  appearance  and  excellent  condition 
pay  tribute  to  the  intelligent  care  and  labor  he  has  bestowed  upon  it.  Mr.  Croft  is 
one  of  the  earliest  residents  of  Chippewa  county,  having  lived  within  its  borders 
since  1858,  and  in  the  course  of  a long  and  honorable  active  career  has  made 
many  substantial  contributions  to  agricultural  development.  He  was  born  in  New 
York  State,  August  14,  1850,  and  is  a son  of  Elijah  and  Susan  (Wright)  Croft, 
both  of  whom  have  passed  away,  the  former  dying  in  1905  and  the  latter  in  1903. 
They  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1858  and  settled  in  Chippewa  Falls,  where 
the  father  became  well  known  and  prominent.  Both  are  buried  in  Eau  Claire, 
Wisconsin. 

Lemore  Croft  was  eight  years  of  age  when  his  parents  moved  to  Chippewa 
county  and  he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Howard  town- 
ship, laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  nineteen.  He  spent  five  years  thereafter 
aiding  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  farm  and  in  this  way  learned  the  best 
agricultural  methods  and  became  a practical  and  able  farmer.  This  knowledge 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


378 

proved  to  lie  very  valuable  to  him  when  he  began  farming  independently,  buying 
the  property  upon  which  he  now  resides.  Throughout  the  intervening  years  he  has 
steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development,  erecting  sub- 
stantial buildings  and  installing  the  necessary  machinery,  and  he  is  today  the 
owner  of  one  of  the  finest  farms  in  his  locality.  He  engages  in  general  agri- 
cultural pursuits  but  specializes  in  raising  grain,  this  branch  of  his  activities  prov- 
ing important  and  profitable  under  his  able  management. 

In  Eau  Claire,  in  1883,  Mr.  Croft  married  Miss  Emma  Reed,  a daughter  of 
Hiram  and  Susan  Reed,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  that 
city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Croft  have  become  the  parents  of  four  children:  Le  Roy, 

who  is  attending  school  in  Chicago;  Herbert,  a farmer  in  Chippewa  county; 
May,  who  lives  at  home;  and  Hazel,  who  married  Waldo  Sherburn,  a farmer 
near  Grassy  Lake,  Saskatchewan,  Canada. 

Mr.  Croft  is  independent  in  his  political  views,  voting  for  men  and  measures 
without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  keenly  interested  in  the  welfare  and  develop- 
ment of  the  section  where  he  has  lived  since  his  childhood  and  where  his  excellent 
qualities  of  mind  and  character  have  gained  the  recognition  they  so  well  deserve. 


AUGUST  GREWE. 

Among  the  many  thrifty,  enterprising  and  progressive  citizens  whom  Ger- 
many has  given  to  America  is  numbered  August  Grewe,  carrying  on  general  farm- 
ing and  stock-raising  upon  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  19, 
Sigel  township.  He  was  born  February  19,  1877,  and  is  a son  of  August  and 
Fredericks  (Lubeke)  Grewe,  also  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born  Septem- 
ber 10,  1847,  and  the  Utter  in  the  same  year.  The  family  emigrated  to  the  United 
States  in  1892  and  settled  in  Cadott,  this  state,  where  the  father  engaged  in 
laboring  for  many  years.  He  and  his  wife  now  make  their  home  with  the  sub- 
ject of  this  review.  They  became  the  parents  of  three  children : William,  a sketch 
of  whom  appears  elsewhere  in  this  volume ; August ; and  a child  who  died  in 
infancy. 

August  Grewe  attended  public  school  in  Germany  until  he  was  fourteen  years 
of  age  and  then  worked  as  a laborer  for  one  year.  In  1892  he  accompanied  his 
parents  to  America,  settling  with  them  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  later  pur- 
chased land  and  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  He  bought  eighty  acres  on 
section  19,  township  29,  range  6 west,  and  in  1907  added  another  eighty  acres 
to  his  holdings  which  now  comprise  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres.  When  the 
first  tract  of  land  came  into  his  possession  there  were  only  about  three  acres 
cleared,  but  he  has  steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  development  until  today 
only  fifty  acres  of  the  entire  property  is  wild.  Mr.  Grewe  has  made  excellent 
improvements  upon  his  farm,  erecting  a comfortable  residence  and  substantial 
outbuildings  all  of  which  he  keeps  in  good  repair.  He  engages  in  general  farming, 
specializing  in  dairying,  and  he  is  also  interested  to  some  extent  in  stock-raising, 
keeping  twenty-five  head  of  cattle  and  five  horses. 

On  the  31st  of  Inly,  191T,  at  Winona,  Minnesota,  Mr.  Urewe  married  Miss 
Bertha  Lebohr,  a daughter  of  Carl  and  Alvina  (Esterk)  Lebohr  of  that  city. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


379 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  Grewe  have  become  the  parents  of  a daughter,  Helen.  Mr.  Grewe 
is  a deacon  in  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political 
views.  He  was  for  two  years  a member  of  the  school  board  and  is  at  all  times 
interested  in  the  growth  and  development  of  the  community,  giving  his  support 
and  cooperation  to  all  progressive  public  measures.  By  his  useful,  honorable 
and  upright  life  he  has  become  widely  and  favorably  known  and  has  won  the 
confidence  and  respect  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


CARL  SCHULTZ. 

Edson  township  numbers  among  its  worthy  and  valued  citizens  Carl  Schultz, 
who  owns  and  operates  a farm  of  two  hundred  acres  on  sections  35  and  3 and 
who  has  by  his  industry,  enterprise  and  practical  methods  made  it  one  of  the 
finest  agricultural  properties  in  his  locality.  He  was  born  in  Rockland  township, 
September  25,  1870.  and  is  a son  of  Henry  and  Alvina  (Gurada)  Schultz,  natives 
of  Germany,  the  former  born  in  1836.  Throughout  his  active  life  the  father  has 
engaged  in  farming  and  now  follows  that  occupation  in  Manitowoc  county.  His 
wife  passed  away  in  1873.  They  were  the  parents  of  eleven  children,  nine  of 
whom  are  still  living. 

Carl  Schultz  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Manitowoc  county 
but  had  very  few  advantages  along  this  line,  attending  only  fifteen  days  during 
two  summers.  His  childhood  was  spent  upon  his  father’s  farm,  which  from  a 
very  early  age  he  assisted  in  operating,  and  before  he  was  twenty-one  years  old 
he  was  a practical  and  able  agriculturist.  From  the  age  of  nineteen  until  he 
was  twenty-six  he  worked  at  farm  labor  in  the  employ  of  others  and  then  pur- 
chased eighty  acres  of  land  in  Manitowoc  county.  This  he  developed  and  improved 
for  three  years,  selling  it  at  the  end  of  that  time  and  buying  one  hundred  and 
thirty  acres  in  Brown  county,  a property  which  remained  in  his  possession  for 
thirteen  years  thereafter.  He  then  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  settled  in 
Edson  township,  where  he  purchased  his  present  farm.  This  comprises  two  hun- 
dred acres,  eighty  of  which  lie  on  section  35,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  one 
hundred  and  twenty  acres  on  section  3,  township  28,  range  5.  In  the  cultivation 
of  this  property  he  has  followed  always  the  most  practical  and  progressive  meth- 
ods and  has  met  with  gratifying  success,  his  farm  reflecting  everywhere  his 
careful  supervision  and  constant  labor.  Mr.  Schultz  specializes  in  dairying  and 
has  also  important  stock-raising  interests,  keeping  thirty  head  of  cattle  and  five 
horses. 

At  Brillion,  Wisconsin,  on  the  22d  of  July,  1895,  Mr.  Schultz  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Reake  Labs,  a daughter  of  John  and  Carolina  (Flasky)  Labs, 
the  former  a well  known  farmer  of  DePere  township,  Brown  county.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Schultz  became  the  parents  of  six  children,  Clara.  Minnie.  Alvina,  Lillian. 
Florence,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  They  have  also  an  adopted  son,  Albert 
Dabs. 

Mr.  Schultz  attends  the  German  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  While  a resident  of  Brown  county  he  served  for  four  years  as 
road  supervisor  and  he  is  at  all  times  interested  in  public  affairs.  His  life  has 


380 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


been  one  of  well  directed  activity  and  intelligent  effort,  resulting  in  the  attain- 
ment of  a fair  measure  of  success,  and  wherever  he  is  known  he  is  respected 
and  esteemed  by  reason  of  his  genuine  personal  worth. 


ERICK  MYRMAN. 

Erick  Myrman,  who  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  almost  three 
decades,  is  a well  known  hotel  proprietor  of  Chippewa  Falls,  conducting  the  Nor- 
way House.  His  birth  occurred  in  Sweden,  his  parents  being  Erick  and  Mary 
(Johnston)  Myrman,  both  of  whom  passed  away  in  that  country.  It  was  in 
1885  that  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States,  coming  direct  to  Chip- 
pewa county,  Wisconsin,  where  he  has  remained  continuously  since.  As  pro-  x 
prietor  of  the  Norway  House  he  has  become  widely  and  favorably  known,  con- 
ducting the  same  in  a manner  that  has  made  his  hostelry  well  patronized.  It 
is  modern  and  up-to-date  in  its  appointments,  and  nothing  is  neglected  that  can 
add  to  the  comfort  of  its  guests. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Myrman  chose 
Miss  Johannah  Ackren,  a daughter  of  John  and  Ronog  Ackren,  both  of  whom 
are  deceased.  The  father  passed  away  in  Portage  county,  Wisconsin,  while  the 
mother’s  demise  occurred  in  Chippewa  county,  this  state.  Our  subject  and  his 
wife  have  one  son,  John  R.,  who  is  still  at  home.  The  family  residence,  which 
Mr.  Myrman  erected,  is  at  No.  24  West  Grand  avenue.  Coming  to  the  new 
world  that  he  might  enjoy  its  greater  advantages,  he  has  wisely  utilized  the 
opportunities  that  have  come  to  him  and  has  long  been  numbered  among  the 
substantial  and  representative  citizens  of  Chippewa  county. 


HON.  WILLIAM  H.  STAFFORD. 

One  of  the  foremost  lawyers  of  Chippewa  Falls,  one  of  its  most  public- 
spirited  men  and  one  of  its  most  influential  democrats,  Hon.  William  H.  Staf- 
ford has  not  only  won  laurels  along  strictly  professional  lines  but,  as  is  so  often 
the  case  with  members  of  the  legal  profession,  has  attained  to  a notable  degiee 
of  prominence  in  political  circles.  Not  only  has  he  served  as  city  and  district 
attorney,  as  mayor  and  as  county  judge  but  he  was  honored  in  1900  by  being 
elected  a delegate  to  the  national  democratic  convention.  Moreover,  he  is 
prominent  in  fraternal  circles  and  is  also  connected  with  the  agricultural  devel- 
opment of  the  county,  owning  eleven  hundred  acres  of  land,  of  which  he  culti- 
vates one  hundred  and  fifty.  He  takes  as  deep  an  interest  in  the  moral  and 
intellectual  development  of  the  people  as  he  does  in  politics  and  at  present  serves 
in  the  capacity  of  vice  president  of  the  public  library  board.  Mr.  Stafford  came 
to  Chippewa  county  about  forty  years  ago,  making  his  way  here  from  Clark 
county,  Wisconsin.  However,  he  is  a native  of  Maine,  his  birth  having  occurred 
in  Orono,  Penobscot  county,  March  rp,  1855,  his  parents  being  Richard  T.  and 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


381 


Margaret  M.  (Field)  Stafford.  The  father  died  in  1897  and  the  mother  in  1907 
and  both  are  buried  in  Chippewa  county. 

Judge  Stafford  received  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Maine  and 
Wisconsin,  laying  aside  his  books  in  1874,  at  the  age  of  nineteen,  in  order  to 
engage  in  school-teaching,  which  occupation  he  followed  for  one  year.  Desirous 
of  larger  ^opportunities,  however,  he  saw  a more  prosperous  and  satisfactory 
future  ahead  of  him  in  the  legal  profession  and  began  to  read  law  under  Lieu- 
tenant Governor  James  M.  Bingham.  Assiduously  applying  himself  to  his  studies, 
he  passed  the  bar  examination  in  1879  and  for  two  years  occupied  himself  with 
legal  problems  in  a private  capacity.  In  1881  Mr.  Stafford  was  elected  to  the 
office  of  county  judge  and  fairly  and  squarely  discharged  the  duties  of  that  impor- 
tant position  until  1889.  His  decisions  were  models  of  judicial  soundness  and 
ever  based  upon  the  equity  of  the  law.  While  he  meted  out  justice  he  was  always 
moved  by  the  underlying  spirit  toward  humanity  of  trying  to  alleviate  the  suffer- 
ing of  those  who  had  committed  their  first  wrong  act  and  who  were  seemingly 
the  victims  of  circumstances.  He  ever  exemplified  in  the  conduct  of  his  office 
lofty  ideals  of  the  noble  calling  to  which  he  gives  his  efforts  and  honored  the 
judicial  position  by  adherence  to  the  solid  virtues  which  underly  the  law.  Fairly 
and  impartially  he  judged  the  cases  that  came  before  him  and  neither  claimant 
nor  defendant  ever  left  his  court  without  feeling  that  justice  had  been  done. 
Although  Judge  Stafford  held  numerous  other  positions  he  has  since  given  his 
time  practically  to  his  private  practice.  A representative  and  important  clientage 
is  accorded  him  and  he  often  finds  occasion  to  exhibit  his  legal  talents  in  connection 
with  important  cases.  He  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  ablest  lawyers  of  the 
county  and  ever  presents  his  cause  with  clearness  and  force,  is  strong  in  argu- 
ment and  logical  in  his  deductions.  He  is  a fluent  speaker  of  marked  oratorical 
power  and  in  addition  to  his  ready  gift  of  language  has  a keen  perception  and 
accurately  applies  the  principles  of  law  to  the  points  in  litigation.  For  one  term 
Mr.  Stafford  also  served  as  mayor  of  Chippewa  Falls,  giving  the  city  an  enlight- 
ened, businesslike  and  beneficial  administration,  during  which  a number  of 
measures  were  passed  which  turned  out  to  be  of  the  greatest  value  to  the  growth 
of  the  community.  He  also  served  several  times  as  city  attorney  and  for  one 
term  as  district  attorney.  In  1900  he  was  a delegate  to  the  democratic  national 
convention  and  is  thoroughly  imbued  with  the  principles  of  that  great  party. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  in  1885,  Judge  Stafford  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Eda  Hopkins,  a daughter  of  E.  C.  and  Mary  (Davenport)  Hopkins,  both  of 
whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mrs.  Stafford  died 
in  1887  and  two  years  later  Judge  Stafford  married  Miss  Fanny  J.  Shields,  a 
daughter  of  John  and  Anna  (Thompson)  Shields,  the  former  of  whom  passed 
away  in  1898,  finding  his  last  resting  place  at  Oshkosh.  The  mother  now 
resides  in  Milwaukee.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Stafford  six  children  have  been  born: 
William  I.,  who  is  foreman  of  the  track  department  of  the  Erie  Railroad  at 
Huntington,  Indiana;  John  S.,  who  is  attending  an  agricultural  school  at  Mil- 
waukee ; Lyman  R.,  a graduate  of  the  high  school  at  Chippewa  Falls ; Harold 
E.,  who  is  attending  high  school ; and  Howard  D.  and  Margaret  A.,  at  home. 
The  family  make  their  home  in  a beautiful  residence  at  No.  419  Superior  street, 
where  Judge  and  Mrs.  Stafford  often  entertain,  both  taking  a leading  part  in  the 
social  life  of  the  city. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


382 


As  the  years  have  brought  prosperity  to  Judge  Stafford  he  has  made  judicious 
investments,  especially  along  realty  lines,  and  now  owns  a farm  of  eleven  hun- 
dred acres  in  this  county,  one  hundred  and  fifty  acres  of  which  are  under  cultiva- 
tion. He  is  prominent  fraternally,  being  a member  of  the  blue  lodge  and  the 
commandery  of  the  .Masons,  in  which  order  he  has  attained  the  thirty-second 
degree,  and  he  also  belongs  to  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  the  Mod- 
ern Woodmen  of  America  and  the  Knights  of  the  Maccabees.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Presbyterian  church.  Public-spirited  and  progressive,  Judge  Stafford 
has  ever  given  to  public  interests  as  much  attention  as  to  his  personal  gain  and  has 
served  in  numerous  positions  of  trust  and  honor  all  of  which  he  has  held  greatly 
to  his  own  credit  and  to  the  benefit  of  all  concerned.  He  has  become  recognized 
as  one  of  the  foremost  men  in  his  community  and  his  wise  counsel  is  often 
accepted  as  final  in  matters  of  controversy,  particularly  in  those  affecting  the 
public  good.  The  success  which  has  come  to  him  is  highly  merited,  for  it  has 
been  attained  through  his  own  efforts  and  it  must  be  the  greater  satisfaction  to 
him  that  lie  can  lay  claim  to  the  title  of  being  a self-made  man  in  the  best,  noblest 
and  most  truly  American  meaning  of  the  word. 


WILLIAM  M.  WILCOX. 


William  M.  Wilcox,  a representative  of  a well  known  pioneer  family  of 
Chippewa  county,  owns  and  operates  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  fine  land  in 
what  is  known  as  Wilcox  valley  in  Lafayette  township.  Upon  that  property  he 
has  resided  during  his  entire  life,  having  been  born  there  October  23,  1865.  He 
is  a son  of  William  L.  and  Maria  S.  (McLean)  Wilcox,  pioneers  in  Chippewa 
county.  The  former  was  a son  of  Romulus  B.  and  Polly  Ann  Wilcox,  of  Rich- 
land, Oswego  county,  New  York.  The  family  is  of  English  origin  and  the  line 
can  be  traced  back  through  several  New  England  generations.  The  father  of 
the  subject  of  this  review  settled  upon  the  Wilcox  homestead  in  pioneer  times, 
making  his  home  in  what  is  now  called  in  his  honor  Wilcox  valley,  at  a time 
when  pioneer  conditions  prevailed  everywhere  and  Indians  were  still  very  numer- 
ous. In  1864  he  enlisted  in  the  First  Wisconsin  Cavalry,  and  served  until  July 
of  the  following  year,  taking  part  in  Wilson’s  raid  through  Alabama  and  Geor- 
gia. He  afterward  joined  the  Grand  Army  of  the  Republic  and  was  interested 
in  its  affairs  until  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred  in  October,  1902,  when 
he  was  seventy-two  years  of  age.  His  wife  survived  him  until  September,  1911, 
dying  at  the  age  of  seventy-six.  Both  are  buried  in  Lafayette  cemetery. 

William  M.  Wilcox  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Lafayette 
township  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  nineteen.  Even  before  this  time, 
however,  he  had  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  and  also 
worked  for  one  year  in  the  lumber  woods.  After  leaving  school  he  engaged  in 
lumbering  during  the  winter  months,  spending  his  summers  on  the  farm,  after- 
ward adding  railroad  contracting  to  the  list  of  his  activities.  Upon  the  death  of 
his  father  the  homestead  came  into  his  possession  and  he  has  since  carried  for- 
ward the  work  of  its  development  and  improvement,  although  he  is  still  active 
as  a railroad  contractor.  He  owns  a valuable  and  productive  property,  all  of  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


383 


buildings  on  which  he  assisted  in  erecting,  and  there  he  engages  in  mixed  farming 
and  dairying,  meeting  with  well  deserved  success.  He  is  the  organizer  of  the 
Wilcox  Valley  Telephone  Company  and  is  interested  in  the  affairs  of  this  con- 
cern, his  ability  being  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  July  3,  1895,  Mr.  Wilcox  married  Miss  Minnie  Wade, 
a daughter  of  John  and  Mary  (Dolan)  Wade,  the  former  a farmer  residing  in 
Deer  River,  Minnesota.  His  wife  passed  away  in  1877  and  is  buried  in  Wis- 
consin. Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wilcox  have  five  children : Allan  M.,  who  is  assisting  his 
father ; James,  Mildred  Steel  and  Dorothea  L.,  all  of  whom  are  attending  school ; 
and  William  G.  Mr.  Wilcox  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  connected 
fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a man  well  known 
throughout  the  county  as  one  of  its  most  progressive  and  able  native  sons  and  he 
merits  and  holds  the  confidence  of  all  who  know  him. 


WILLIAM  H.  GATES. 

William  H.  Gates  is  a prosperous  farmer  of  Howard  township  whose  suc- 
cessful life  merits  exceptional  praise  owing  to  the  fact  that  when  scarcely  out  of 
boyhood  he  was  thrown  upon  his  own  resources  and  since  that  time  has  been 
dependent  upon  his  own  labors  for  a livelihood.  However,  he  possessed  the 
qualifications  for  a successful  career  and  little  by  little  they  evidenced  them- 
selves. He  accepted  any  employment  offered  him  and  applied  himself  diligently 
to  it  and  thus  gradually  bettered  his  condition,  so  that  finally  through  industry, 
thrift  and  economy  he  saved  sufficient  money  to  purchase  more  land  and  has 
since  prospered  until  today  he  is  one  of  the  most  successful  and  enterprising 
farmers  of  Chippewa  county.  He  was  born  in  Cass  county,  Michigan,  in  Octo- 
ber, 1867,  and  is  a son  of  William  J.  and  I.ovina  A.  (Wood)  Gates,  residents  of 
Ontario,  Canada,  where  the  father  is  prominent  and  well  known. 

William  H.  Gates  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Canada  but 
at  the  early  age  of  thirteen  was  obliged  to  lay  aside  his  books  and  begin  earning 
his  own  livelihood.  After  leaving  school  he  hired  out  as  a farm  laborer,  con- 
tinuing thus  for  two  years,  after  which  he  worked  at  anything  he  could  find  to 
do  until  1895.  He  was  ambitious,  thrifty  and  energetic  and  he  finally  saved 
enough  money  to  purchase  land  of  his  own,  coming  to  Chippewa  county  and 
beginning  modestly  with  a forty  acre  tract.  Upon  this  farm  he  worked  early 
and  late,  meeting  with  excellent  success  and  gradually  adding  to  his  landed  hold- 
ings until  today  he  owns  three  hundred  and  twenty  acres.  His  land  is  highly 
improved  with  a commodious  residence,  good  barns  and  outbuildings  and  mod- 
ern machinery  and  upon  this  property  Mr.  Gates  carries  on  general  farming  and 
stock-raising,  keeping  twenty-eight  head  of  cattle,  twenty-three  hogs  and  six 
horses. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  on  the  21st  of  August,  1893,  Mr.  Gates  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Jennie  E.  Belmore,  a daughter  of  J.  W.  and  Eliza  (Polley) 
Belmore.  The  father  died  in  1906  and  is  buried  in  Colorado.  His  wife  survives 
him,  making  her  home  with  the  subject  of  this  review.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gates 
have  three  children,  Harry  E.,  Eugene  R.  and  Kenneth  J.,  all  at  home. 


384 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Gates  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  at  pres- 
ent serving  as  chairman  of  the  town  of  Wheaton.  He  is  a devout  member  of 
the  Congregational  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  lodge 
and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  His  career  is  a commendable  one  and 
is  one  of  the  many  evidences  of  what  patience  and  perseverance  will  do  in  over- 
coming difficulties  and  achieving  success.  Mr.  Gates  is  an  upright  man,  inter- 
ested not  only  in  the  material  but  also  in  the  moral  standing  of  the  community, 
and  he  has  acquired  the  confidence  and  respect  of  his  neighbors  both  as  a sub- 
stantial farmer  and  a useful  citizen. 


JOHN  NELSON. 

Among  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county  is  John  Nelson,  who 
owns  valuable  land  on  section  8,  township  28,  range  6 west,  in  Edson  and  Sigel 
townships.  A native  of  Kaukauna  township,  Outagamie  county,  Wisconsin,  John 
Nelson  was  born  March  22,  1874,  his  parents  being  Lars  and  Catharine  (Peter- 
son) Nelson,  both  natives  of  Denmark,  the  former  born  in  1835  and  the  latter 
in  1839.  Lars  Nelson  still  lives  on  his  old  homestead,  having  retired  from  active 
farm  labor  in  1909.  The  mother  passed  away  in  that  year.  In  their  family  were 
nine  children:  Anna,  Lena,  William  F.,  Hannah,  Mary  E.,  John,  Frank,  Law- 

rence L.  and  Irwin. 

John  Nelson  attended  school  in  Outagamie  county  until  fourteen  years  of 
age,  when  he  began  to  make  his  own  living  by  working  at  farm  labor  for  three 
years.  He  then  worked  for  one  year  in  a brick  yard  and  for  thirteen  years  fol- 
lowing was  employed  in  a cheese  factory,  being  a cheese  maker  for  twelve  years 
of  that  time.  However,  as  early  as  1899  he  had  bought  one  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  on  section  8,  township  28,  range  6 west,  and  has  been  very  successful  in 
the  cultivation  of  his  land.  He  raises  corn,  oats  and  hay  and  his  live  stock  inter- 
ests are  also  important,  for  he  has  about  twenty-three  head  of  cattle,  five  horses, 
forty-five  sheep  and  twenty-three  hogs.  He  is  modern  and  progressive  in  his 
methods  and  his  buildings  are  well  equipped  and  substantial.  Mr.  Nelson  spec- 
ializes in  dairy  products,  giving  particular  attention  to  that  line  of  work,  with 
a view  toward  the  best  quality  of  milk  and  the  production  of  the  same  under  the 
most  sanitary  conditions. 

On  December  25,  1901,  in  Kaukauna  township,  Outagamie  county,  Wisconsin, 
Mr.  Nelson  was  married  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Taggart,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Taggart,  the  former  a prominent  farmer  of  Kaukauna  township.  He  was  born 
in  1830  and  Mrs.  Taggart  in  1838.  Both  still  reside  on  the  homestead  in  Outa- 
gamie county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Nelson  have  six  children:  Mary  E.,  Lloyd  O.,  John 
H.,  Leonard,  H.  J.  and  Bernicia.  Mrs.  Nelson  is  one  of  eleven  children,  her 
brothers  and  sisters  being:  John;  William  H. ; Estella  L.,  deceased;  Homer; 
Thomas  J. ; Frank ; Ida ; Elizabeth ; James  G. ; and  Lillian  M. 

Mr.  Nelson  is  very  successful  along  his  line  and  prosperity  has  largely  come 
to  him  in  answer  to  his  ambitions.  Coming  to  Chippewa  county  and  Edson  town- 
ship in  1899  as  a cheese  maker  in  the  first  factory  in  that  part  of  the  country,  he 
is  now  a well-to-do  agriculturist,  and  his  success  is  the  more  creditable  as  it 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


385 


has  been  brought  about  through  his  own  efforts  only.  In  politics  he  is  inde- 
pendent, following  largely  his  judgment  in  supporting  candidates.  For  eight 
years  he  has  served  as  board  clerk  and  for  one  year  as  township  supervisor.  He 
is  a member  of  the  Church  of  Jesus  Christ  of  Latter  Day  Saints.  Mr.  Nelson 
in  full  measure  enjoys  the  good-will  and  confidence  of  all  who  know  him  and 
has  made  many  friends  in  Chippewa  county  since  making  his  home  here. 


FRANK  DOUGLAS. 

Among  the  young  men  of  marked  ability  and  substantial  worth  in  Chippewa 
county  is  numbered  Frank  Douglas,  president  of  the  Saltzaber  & Douglas  Imple- 
ment Company  and  of  the  Farmers  Produce  Company,  and  prominently  con- 
nected with  agricultural  interests  of  this  locality  as  the  owner  of  a one  hundred 
and  sixty  acre  farm  on  section  7,  Anson  township.  He  is  a native  son  of  Chip- 
pewa county,  born  in  October,  1884,  his  parents  being  Richard  and  Jessie  (Cole) 
Douglas,  the  former  of  whom  died  in  1902  and  is  buried  in  Anson  township. 
His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in  Raymond,  Washington. 

Frank  Douglas  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  then  worked  as  a farm 
laborer  for  five  years  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  secured  a position  in  the  lum- 
ber woods,  where  he  remained  for  six  months.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  estab- 
lished himself  in  the  dairy  business,  abandoning  this  at  the  end  of  two  years 
and  coming  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  has  since  resided.  He  is  well  known 
in  business  circles  as  a member  of  the  Saltzaber  & Douglas  Implement  Company 
and  the  Farmers  Produce  Company  and  he  is  besides  active  in  agricultural  pur- 
suits, owning  and  operating  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  sec- 
tion 7,  Anson  township.  All  of  his  interests  are  capably  and  progressively  con- 
ducted and  have  brought  him  a degree  of  success  which  places  him  among  the 
representative  young  men  of  this  locality. 

Mr.  Douglas  was  married  in  Chippewa  Falls.  His  wife’s  parents  reside  in 
Anson  township.  Mr.  Douglas  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and 
is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  Fie  is  still  a young  man  but  has  already 
made  his  influence  felt  in  agricultural  and  business  circles  of  Chippewa  county 
and  he  possesses  in  his  ability  and  ambition  a guarantee  of  continued  progress. 


JULIAN  A.  BABBITT. 

Julian  A.  Babbitt,  a prominent  logger  and  road  contractor  of  Boyd,  was  born 
in  Sigel  township,  this  county,  on  the  1st  of  October,  1871,  a son  of  Francis  C. 
and  Mary  (Gorham)  Babbitt,  the  former  born  in  Woodstock,  Windsor  county, 
Vermont  in  1841,  and  the  latter  in  Cleveland,  Ohio.  The  father  was  one  of  the 
pioneer  settlers  in  Chippewa  county,  having  located  here  in  1865  when  he  was 
twenty-four  years  of  age.  He  turned  his  attention  to  the  logging  business  and 
was  very  successful  along  that  line,  abandoning  it  eventually  in  favor  of  farm- 


386 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OP  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ing.  He  is  now  one  of  the  most  extensive  land  holders  and  prominent  stock- 
raisers  in  Sigel  township  owning  over  one  thousand  acres  of  land  on  section  2, 
township  29,  range  6 west.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  nine  child- 
ren. Frank  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Delmar  township.  He  married  Miss  Laura 
Phillips  and  they  have  one  child.  Isaac  makes  his  home  in  Idaho.  He  is  mar- 
ried and  has  two  children.  Grace  became  the  wife  of  Jacob  Braun,  a merchant 
at  Appleton,  Wisconsin.  They  have  two  children.  Julian  is  the  subject  of  this 
review.  Josephine  married  Fred  Etten,  a farmer  of  Edson  township,  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  six  children.  Louisa  became  the  wife  of  Adolph 
Milling,  also  engaged  in  farming  in  Edson  township.  They  have  one  child. 
Benjamin  is  a well  known  farmer  of  Delmar  township.  He  married  Miss  Mabel 
Phillips  and  they  have  five  children.  Wellman,  the  youngest  of  the  family,  is 
married  and  lives  in  Idaho.  Ellen  is  now  Mrs.  McConville  and  has  five  children. 

Julian  A.  Babbitt  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
township  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the 
farm  for  some  time.  He  later  purchased  land  of  his  own  and  has  since  added 
to  this  so  that  he  has  today  valuable  holdings  in  Delmar  and  Edson  townships. 
He  makes  his  home,  however,  in  Boyd,  where  he  is  well  known  as  a logger  and 
a road  contractor. 

Mr.  Babbitt  married  Miss  Ellen  McTauge,  a native  of  Canada,  and  they 
became  the  parents  of  three  children.  Politically  Mr.  Babbitt  gives  his  allegiance 
to  the  republican  party  and  is  well  known  in  public  affairs,  having  rendered  the 
township  and  village  excellent  service  in  various  capacities.  He  is  one  of  the 
most  highly  esteemed  and  prominent  citizens  of  Boyd  and  his  ability  is  recog- 
nized and  respected  in  business  circles. 


WILLIAM  A.  WEYENBERG. 


Among  the  young  men  of  Chippewa  Falls  who  have  made  their  progressive 
spirit,  their  energy,  enterprise  and  ability  the  basis  of  an  important  and  substan- 
tial business  success  is  William  A.  Weyenberg,  vice  president  and  one  of  the 
founders  of  the  L.  W.  Shoe  Company.  He  is  a native  son  of  that  city,  born 
March  11,  1885,  his  parents  being  William  and  Angeline  (DeKelver)  Weyen- 
berg. The  father  was  at  one  time  a retail  shoe  merchant  in  that  city  and  then 
moved  to  Milwaukee,  where  he  founded  the  Weyenberg  Shoe  Manufacturing 
Company,  controlling  one  of  the  most  important  concerns  of  this  character  in 
the  city.  He  afterward  sold  his  interests  to  his  brother  and  nephew  and  returned 
to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  a few  years  later  he  joined  his  sons  in  the  organiza- 
tion of  the  L.  W.  Shoe  Company.  He  has  always  taken  an  active  interest  in  the 
development  and  growth  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  Chippewa  county  and  is  well 
and  favorably  known  in  this  part  of  the  state. 

William  A.  Weyenberg  acquired  his  education  in  Notre  Dame  school,  Chip- 
pewa Falls.  After  he  laid  aside  his  books  he  entered  his  father’s  retail  shoe  store 
in  that  city  and  when  this  was  disposed  of  went  with  the  latter  to  Milwaukee, 
where  he  took  an  active  part  in  the  upbuilding  and  development  of  the  manu- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


387 

facturing  concern.  After  William  Weyenberg,  Sr.,  returned  to  Chippewa  Falls 
and  repurchased  his  former  store  Mr.  Weyenberg  of  this  review  became  man- 
ager of  the  concern,  holding  this  position  for  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that 
time  he  joined  his  father  in  the  foundation  of  the  E.  W.  Shoe  Company  and  he 
has  since  been  vice  president  of  this  concern  and  an  important  element  in  the 
growth  which  makes  it  today  one  of  the  leading  industrial  enterprises  in  the  city. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  ist  of  May,  1906,  Mr.  Weyenberg  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Ottilia  Ruf,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Anton  Ruf, 
the  former  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war.  He  and  his  wife  reside  in  Chippewa  Falls. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Weyenberg  became  the  parents  of  three  children,  two  of  whom  died 
in  infancy.  The  other,  Burnadotte  M.,  was  born  March  26,  1913. 

Mr.  Weyenberg  is  a member  of  the  Notre  Dame  Roman  Catholic  church  and 
is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs,  taking  an  intelligent  interest  in  public  affairs 
without  being  active  as  an  office  seeker.  He  is  a progressive,  reliable  and  far- 
sighted business  man  and  holds  an  enviable  place  in  business  circles,  commanding 
the  confidence  and  high  regard  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


JOSEPH  ARTHUR  EVISON. 

The  spirit  of  enterprise  and  progress  has  actuated  Joseph  Arthur  Evison, 
in  all  of  the  activities  of  his  career  and  has  brought  him  today  to  a position 
among  the  representative  farmers  of  Delmar  township.  He  owns  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  21,  and  this  he  has  developed  and  improved 
along  modern  and  scientific  lines,  so  that  it  is  representative  of  the  best  class  of 
the  present  day  farming  properties. 

Mr.  Evison  was  born  in  Bennett  township,  Dodge  county,  Wisconsin,  Septem- 
ber 26,  1863,  a son  of  Joseph  K.  and  Anna  (Leith)  Evison,  the  former  born  in 
England  in  1832  and  the  latter  in  Wisconsin  in  1840.  The  father  came  to  this 
state  when  he  was  a young  man  and  died  here  in  T910.  His  wife  has  also  passed 
away,  her  death  having  occurred  in  1896.  To  their  union  were  born  nine  children, 
six  of  whom  are  still  living. 

Joseph  Arthur  Evison  acquired  his  education  in  the  grammar  schools  in 
Dodge  county,  in  high  school  at  Beaver  Dam  and  in  Spencer’s  Business  College 
in  Milwaukee.  From  the  time  he  was  twenty-one  until  he  was  thirty-two  he 
worked  on  the  home  farm,  which  he  then  rented,  operating  it  for  himself  for 
seven  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  purchased  two  hundred  acres,  lying 
on  sections  21  and  22,  township  29,  range  5 west.  Of  this  he  sold  forty  acres 
in  1908,  and  now  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  the  land  comprising  one  of 
the  most  valuable  and  productive  farms  in  the  township.  Upon  it  Mr.  Evison  has 
made  substantial  improvements,  building  a house  and  modern  barns  and  outbuild- 
ings, all  of  which  are  kept  in  excellent  condition.  The  owner  engages  in  general 
farming  and  stock-raising,  keeping  twenty-one  head  of  Guernsey  cattle,  seven 
horses  and  fifty  hogs. 

In  Waupaca  county,  this  state,  December  25,  1895,  Mr.  Evison  married  Miss 
Elizabeth  Crane,  a daughter  of  W.  W.  Crane.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Evison  have  three 
children,  Willard,  Leland  and  Florence.  Mr.  Evison  is  a stockholder  in  the 


388 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Inter-County  Fair  Association  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern 
Woodmen  of  America.  He  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  a demo- 
crat in  his  political  belief,  serving  at  present  as  treasurer  of  school  district  No.  5. 
His  attention  is,  however,  chiefly  concentrated  upon  the  conduct  of  his  farming 
interests,  which  are  every  year  becoming  more  extensive  and  important. 


JOHN  MOORE  CANCE. 

Among  the  younger  men  of  Delmar  township,  who  have  attained  an  enviable 
degree  of  success  in  agricultural  pursuits  is  numbered  John  Moore  Cance,  who 
owns  and  operates  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  fine  land  on  section  22.  He 
was  born  in  Trempealeau  county,  Wisconsin,  October  4,  1882,  a son  of  Alex 
and  Agnes  (Edmond)  Cance,  natives  of  Scotland,  the  former  born  in  1848  and 
the  latter  in  1853.  The  father  followed  farming  in  Wisconsin  for  many  years, 
but  is  now  living  retired  in  Outagamie  county,  this  state.  He  and  his  wife  became 
parents  of  six  children,  Alex,  Katherine,  Edmond,  Tena,  John  and  Gordon. 

John  Moore  Cance  acquired  his  education  in  the  district  schools  of  his  native 
county  and  afterwards  assisted  his  father  with  the  operation  of  the  farm  until 
he  was  twenty-one.  At  that  time  he  joined  his  brother,  Edmond,  and  together 
they  cultivated  the  homestead  there,  two  years  after  which  Mr.  Cance  of  this 
review  assumed  entire  charge.  However,  at  the  end  of  one  year  he  moved  to 
Chippewa  county  and  bought  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land  lying  on 
section  22,  township  29,  range  5 west.  Here  he  has  resided  since  1906,  and  he 
gives  practically  all  of  his  attention  to  its  development,  following  always  the  most 
progressive  methods,  and  neglecting  nothing  that  would  add  to  the  appearance 
or  the  value  of  the  place.  He  raises  all  kinds  of  small  grains  and  specializes  in 
dairying  and  stock  breeding. 

At  Stanley,  Wisconsin,  September  5,  1909,  Mr.  Cance  married  Miss  Mary 
Korn,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Andrew  Korn,  residents  of  that  city.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Cance  have  two  children : Edmond  L.,  and  Ellen  Iv.  Mr.  Cance 

gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  interested  and  active 
in  public  affairs.  He  is  one  of  the  most  progressive  and  enterprising  young 
farmers  of  Delmar  township  and  will  undoubtedly  win  even  greater  prosperity  in 
his  chosen  field. 


WILLIAM  HORN. 

William  Horn  has  resided  in  Chippewa  county  since  1880  and  on  his  present 
farm  since  1881  and  during  the  years  has  made  many  substantial  contributions  to 
agricultural  development  and  has  met  with  a gratifying  personal  success.  His 
farm  comprises  eighty  acres  of  land  on  section  28,  Lafayette  township.  Mr. 
Horn  was  born  in  Peterborough  county,  Ontario,  December  15,  1838,  and  is  a 
son  of  Daniel  and  Elizabeth  (Ehrhart)  Horn,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


389 


that  part  of  the  province.  He  and  his  wife  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in 
Ontario  in  the  family  burial  ground. 

William  Horn  began  to  earn  his  own  livelihood  at  the  early  age  of  fourteen, 
working  at  farm  labor,  plowing  with  a cattle  team  led  by  a rope.  He  afterward 
worked  in  the  lumber  woods  and  on  the  river,  following  these  occupations  in 
conjunction  with  farming  until  1880,  when  he  left  Canada  and  came  to  Chippewa 
county,  where  he  has  since  resided.  In  the  following  year  he  purchased  eighty 
acres  of  brush  land  on  section  28,  Lafayette  township,  and  with  characteristic 
energy  set  himself  to  improve  and  develop  this  property,  which  owing  to  his 
able  management  is  today  one  of  the  finest  farms  in  the  township.  Mr.  Horn 
owes  his  success  entirely  to  his  own  unremitting  energy  and  untiring  efforts,  for 
he  started  out  in  life  empty-handed  and  has  steadily  worked  his  way  upward 
to  prosperity. 

Mr.  Horn  has  been  twice  married.  He  wedded  in  Canada  Miss  Matilda 
Melville,  who  died  March  16,  1894,  leaving  six  children:  Elizabeth;  Mary,  the 
deceased  wife  of  Thomas  Monak ; Agnes,  who  married  Alexander  Wilkinson, 
of  Colorado;  Hannah,  the  wife  of  John  Whitton,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Matilda 
May,  who  married  Thomas  Hogan,  a farmer  in  Saskatchewan;  and  Daniel,  who 
is  assisting  the  subject  of  this  review.  On  the  6th  of  June,  1904,  Mr.  Horn  was 
again  married,  his  second  wife  being  Miss  Mary  Crowley,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Dennis  Crowley,  the  former  a farmer  in  this  state.  Mr.  Horn  is  a member 
of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs,  taking 
an  intelligent  interest  in  public  affairs  but  never  seeking  public  office.  During 
the  thirty-three  years  of  his  residence  in  this  county  he  has  proved  himself  a 
progressive  and  able  agriculturist,  while  his  personal  qualities  have  gained  him 
the  warm  regard  and  esteem  of  all  who  are  in  any  way  associated  with  him. 


EDWARD  HEAGLE. 

Industry,  determination  and  unremitting  labor  have  been  the  basis  of  the  suc- 
cess of  Edward  Heagle  and  have  brought  him  today  to  a foremost  position  among 
the  progressive  farmers  of  Chippewa  county.  He  owns  one  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  on  section  29,  Sigel  township  and  by  constantly  following  the  most  practical 
methods  in  the  cultivation  of  his  farm  has  surrounded  himself  with  a gratifying 
degree  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  Seymour  township,  Outagamie  county,  this 
state,  March  18,  1868,  and  is  a son  of  James  and  Elizabeth  (Eaton)  Heagle,  na- 
tives of  Canada,  the  former  born  in  1841  and  the  latter  in  1843.  The  father  was 
a mail  carrier  for  many  years  but  is  now  living  retired  in  Gilman.  He  and  his 
wife  became  the  parents  of  thirteen  children:  Emma,  who  has  passed  away; 

Mattie;  Edward,  of  this  review;  Clara,  deceased;  William;  Anson;  Myrtle;  Alice 
and  Ellen,  deceased;  Roy;  Ralph,  who  has  passed  away;  and  two  children  who 
died  in  infancy. 

Edward  Heagle  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
township,  attending  until  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age.  When  he  was  nineteen 
he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  here  worked  at  various  occupations,  saving  the 
money  which  he  earned  through  his  unremitting  industry.  In  1891,  when  he  was 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


390 

twenty-three  years  of  age  he  purchased  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land  on 
section  29,  township  29,  range  6 west,  and  he  has  since  made  his  home  upon 
this  property  which  he  has  been  very  successful  in  developing  and  improving. 
He  engages  in  general  farming  and  is  also  extensively  interested  in  stock-raising, 
having  at  present  a herd  of  thirty-three  head  of  cattle,  part  of  which  is  composed 
of  pure-bred  registered  Holstein  animals.  Mr.  Heagle  conducts  also  a modern 
and  sanitary  dairy,  and  the  products  of  this  as  well  as  his  hay,  corn,  oats  and 
wheat  he  sells  readily  in  the  local  markets. 

At  Chippewa  Falls,  April  19,  1890,  Mr.  Heagle  married  Miss  Minnie  Filtz,  a 
daughter  of  Theodore  and  Theresa  (Schuster)  Filtz,  of  Cadott.  The  parents 
settled  in  that  city  in  1880  and  the  father  is  prominent  in  the  manufacturing 
business  there.  In  this  family  were  eight  children : Minnie,  August,  Henry, 

Theodore  W.,  Anna,  Frank,  Mary  and  Edward.  To  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Heagle  have 
been  born  three  children  : Gerald  F.,  Leona  G.,  and  one  who  died  in  infancy.  Mr. 
Heagle  is  a member  of  the  Methodist  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs.  His  life  has  been  one  of  unremitting  labor  and  well  directed  activity,  re- 
sulting in  the  attainment  of  a creditable  measure  of  success,  and  wherever  he  is 
known  he  is  respected  and  esteemed  by  reason  of  his  genuine  personal  worth. 


DANIEL  ERMATINGER,  Jr. 

Daniel  Ermatinger,  Jr.,  since  1911  general  superintendent  of  the  Chippewa 
Valley  Railway,  Light  & Power  Company,  is  numbered  among  the  most  pro- 
gressive and  energetic  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  has  been  con- 
nected with  business  interests  since  the  beginning  of  his  active  career.  He  was 
born  in  Alexander,  Glengarry  county,  Ontario,  in  1874  and  is  a son  of  Daniel 
and  Jessie  (Cameron)  Ermatinger,  who  came  to  Chippewa  Falls  in  1879,  among 
the  early  settlers  here,  and  who  have  made  that  city  their  home  since  that  time. 
The  father  is  a well  known  stonemason  and  contractor. 

Daniel  Ermatinger,  Tr.,  was  five  years  of  age  when  brought  by  his  parents  to 
Chippewa  Falls  and  he  here  acquired  his  education,  attending  the  parochial  schools 
of  Notre  Dame.  He  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  sixteen  and  after  spending 
one  year  in  the  lumber  woods  took  a course  in  a business  college,  after  which 
he  started  as  an  apprentice  in  the  F.  G.  & C.  A.  Stanley  Machine  Shops.  When 
he  completed  this  at  the  end  of  four  years  he  went  west,  returning  to  Chippewa 
Falls  at  the  end  of  one  year.  Here  he  accepted  a position  as  engineer  on  a canal, 
in  the  employ  of  the  Chippewa  Lumber  & Boom  Company,  but  at  the  end  of  one 
year  became  connected  with  the  Chippewa  Valley  Railway,  Light  & Power  Com- 
pany as  assistant  in  the  power  house.  He  proved  his  ability  and  trustworthiness 
by  fourteen  years  of  capable  work  in  this  capacity  and  in  October,  1911,  was 
appointed  superintendent.  This  position  he  now  holds  and  its  responsible  duties 
are  discharged  always  promptly  and  intelligently. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  September  7,  1898,  Mr.  Ermatinger  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Carrie  M.  La  Chappelle,  a daughter  of  John  and  Margaret  ( Dorland) 
La  Chappelle.  The  father  passed  away  in  1880  and  is  survived  by  his  wife,  who 
resides  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ermatinger  have  become  the  parents 


DANIEL  ERMATINGER,  JR. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


393 


of  six  children : Claude,  Margaret,  Harold  and  Lloyd,  all  at  home ; and  Warren 

and  Matilda,  who  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Forest  Hill  cemetery  at 
Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  Ermatinger  is  a member  of  Notre  Dame  Roman  Catholic 
church  of  Chippewa  Falls,  Wisconsin,  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights 
of  Columbus,  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters  and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of 
America.  His  political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  democratic  party  and  he  takes 
a keen  interest  in  the  welfare  of  the  locality  where  he  has  spent  practically  his 
entire  life  and  where  he  holds  the  respect  and  esteem  of  all  who  have  been  brought 
in  contact  with  him. 


THEODORE  A.  HOIDAHL. 


Since  1882  Theodore  A.  Hoidahl  has  been  in  some  way  connected  with  the 
Northwestern  Lumber  Company  and  his  industry,  integrity  and  ability  have 
enabled  him  to  rise  since  that  time  to  the  responsible  position  of  cashier.  He  is 
known  as  one  of  the  most  trusted  and  esteemed  representatives  of  this  concern 
and  holds  a high  place  among  progressive  and  successful  business  men  of  Stanley, 
where  he  makes  his  home.  He  was  born  in  Norway  on  the  5th  of  October,  1862, 
and  is  a son  of  Andreas  and  Dorothea  Hoidahl,  also  natives  of  that  country, 
born  in  1838.  The  father  was  a sailor,  later  employed  in  a sawmill  and  also  for 
many  years  followed  farming.  He  and  his  first  wife  had  one  son,  Theodore  A., 
of  this  review.  After  the  death  of  Mrs.  Dorothea  Hoidahl,  which  occurred  in 
1862,  Andreas  Hoidahl  married  her  sister,  Grethe,  by  whom  he  had  six  children, 
as  follows : Johan,  Harold,  Erling,  Inga,  Anna,  and  a child  who  died  in  infancy. 

Theodore  A.  Hoidahl  attended  public  school  in  Norway  until  he  was  four- 
teen years  of  age  and  then  secured  a position  as  clerk  in  a general  store.  At  the 
end  of  three  years  he  shipped  aboard  a vessel  and  followed  the  sea  for  two  years 
thereafter.  On  the  16th  of  April,  1882,  he  moved  to  Eau  Claire  and  immediately 
became  connected  with  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  as  a piler  of  edgings. 
From  piling  edgings  he  was  promoted  to  be  a knot  sawyer  and  was  afterward 
sent  to  the  company’s  office  in  Sterling,  Wisconsin,  where  he  remained  as  book- 
keeper and  postmaster  for  a year  and  a half.  During  that  time  he  was  also 
managing  the  company’s  store  in  Sterling  and  this  position  he  held  until  1892, 
when  he  came  to  Stanley,  acting  as  bookkeeper.  In  1910  he  was  made  cashier  of 
the  concern  and  in  this  responsible  position  his  initiative  and  administrative  ability 
have  been  called  forth  and  he  has  aided  in  the  development  and  growth  of  the 
business.  He  is  in  addition  a stockholder  and  director  in  the  Citizens  State  Bank 
of  Stanley  and  his  worth  is  widely  recognized  in  business  circles. 

On  the  19th  of  August,  1886,  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  Mr.  Hoidahl  mar- 
ried Miss  Annette  Gunderson,  a daughter  of  Hans  and  Maren  Gunderson,  of 
Fredrikstad,  Norway.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hoidahl  became  the  parents  of  ten  chil- 
dren, Anton,  Flarold,  Theodore,  Dagny,  Aagot,  Harold,  Ruth,  Theodore,  Gudrun 
and  Annette.  Mrs.  Hoidahl  passed  away  June  17,  1905,  and  on  the  nth  of 
August  of  the  following  year  Mr.  Hoidahl  was  again  married,  his  second  wife 

being  Miss  Laura  Johnson,  formerly  a nurse  in  St.  Paul,  Minnesota. 

Voi.  n— 2 1 


394 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Hoidahl  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  was 
for  one  year  city  treasurer  of  Stanley  and  for  fifteen  years  a member  of  the 
board  of  education.  He  is  a deacon  in  the  United  Lutheran  church  and  serves 
also  as  superintendent  of  the  Sunday  school.  His  is  a splendid  example  of  the 
value  of  energy  and  perseverance  in  the  attainment  of  success,  for  he  started  in 
a humble  capacity  and  through  his  own  efforts  has  worked  his  way  upward  to 
a responsible  and  important  position.  He  holds  the  confidence  and  respect  of  his 
superiors  and  the  esteem  and  good-will  of  his  associates,  being  numbered  among 
the  representative  and  substantial  men  of  Stanley. 


FRANK  LASH  WAY. 

Mixed  farming  and  fruit  raising  command  the  attention  of  Frank  Lashway, 
who  cultivates  a tract  of  eighty  acres  on  section  19,  Lafayette  township,  and 
who  has  met  with  a success  which  places  him  among  the  able  and  progressive 
agriculturists  of  his  locality.  He  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county,  born  in  Chip- 
pewa Falls,  March  10,  1867,  his  parents  being  Louis  and  Elizabeth  (Coleman) 
Lashway.  The  family  is  of  French  origin  on  the  paternal  side  and  the  maternal 
ancestors  were  of  New  York  Quaker  stock.  Louis  Lashway  came  to  Chippewa 
Falls  over  sixty  years  ago  and  has  made  his  home  in  that  city  since  that  time, 
being  today  one  of  the  most  highly  respected  men  of  the  community.  He  engaged 
in  merchandising  for  many  years  and  has  been  also  active  in  public  affairs,  serv- 
ing for  three  terms  as  city  clerk  and  for  twelve  years  as  postmaster. 

Frank  Lashway  acquired  his  education  in  Chippewa  Falls,  leaving  high 
school  when  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward  worked  for  seven  years 
in  the  planing  mill  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Manufacturing  Company,  leaving  this 
concern  in  order  to  enter  the  employ  of  the  Bell  Telephone  Company.  He  retained 
this  connection  until  1909,  when  he  purchased  eighty  acres  on  section  19,  Lafay- 
ette township,  upon  which  he  still  operates  a telephone  exchange.  Fie  has  two 
acres  of  land  planted  in  fruit  and  the  remainder  is  under  cultivation  in  various 
kinds  of  grain,  and  his  agricultural  methods,  being  always  practical,  have  been 
accompanied  by  excellent  results. 

Mr.  Lashway  has  been  twice  married.  In  1892  he  wedded,  in  Eau  Claire, 
Miss  Stella  M.  Neill,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  James  Neill,  of  that  city.  Mrs. 
Stella  Lashway  passed  away  December  17,  1896,  and  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill 
cemetery,  Chippewa  Falls.  She  left  one  daughter,  Valeria  E.,  a graduate  of  the 
Chippewa  Falls  high  school  and  now  engaged  in  teaching.  On  the  26th  of  April, 
1897,  Mr.  Lashway  was  again  married,  his  second  wife  being  Miss  Allie  Dell 
Waldo,  a daughter  of  Leverett  H.  and  Luella  M.  Waldo,  the  former  an  old 
settler  in  Appleton,  Wisconsin,  and  for  many  years  superintendent  of  the  woolen 
mills  there.  He  was  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war  and  well  known  and  favorably 
regarded  in  the  community,  where  he  spent  practically  his  entire  active  life.  He 
died  in  1895  and  is  buried  in  Appleton.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her 
home  at  Park  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Lashway  are  the  parents  of  four  children : 
Margaret  E.  and  Luella  E.,  who  are  attending  school;  Harriett  L. ; and  Henry 
Coleman. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


395 


Mr.  Lashway  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Masonic  lodge,  chapter  and  commandery.  He  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs  and  takes  an  intelligent  interest  in  community  affairs, 
having  served  in  1911  as  chairman  of  the  town  board.  He  is  a progressive  and 
wide-awake  farmer,  always  ready  to  incorporate  modern  methods  in  his  busi- 
ness, and  his  industry  and  enterprise  have  not  only  enabled  him  to  attain  pros- 
perity but  have  won  him  a high  place  in  the  respect  and  confidence  of  his  neigh- 
bors. 


FRED  C.  MOORE. 

Fred  C.  Moore,  proprietor  of  a first  class  barber  shop  in  Cadott  and  also  a 
taxidermist  of  considerable  skill  and  reputation,  was  born  in  Richland  county, 
this  state,  May  25,  1881.  a son  of  Charles  J.  and  Sophrona  (Salins)  Moore,  the 
former  born  in  England  in  1840  and  the  latter  in  Crawford  county  in  1855. 
The  father  died  in  1889  and  the  mother  is  living  in  Montana  on  a homestead 
which  she  is  improving.  Four  children  were  born  to  their  union:  Frank,  Fred 
C.,  Delpia  and  Ella,  deceased. 

Fred  C.  Moore  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Richland  and 
Chippewa  counties,  laying  aside  his  books  when  he  was  sixteen  years  of  age. 
He  afterwards  worked  on  farms,  in  the  lumber  woods  and  at  various  other  occu- 
pations until  1903,  when  he  settled  in  Cadott  and  opened  the  barber  shop  which 
he  has  since  conducted.  This  is  modern  and  sanitary  in  all  its  appointments 
and  the  owner  controls  a large  and  growing  patronage  for  he  is  recognized 
as  an  able  and  enterprising  business  man.  Tn  addition  to  his  barber  business  he 
practises  taxidermy  to  a considerable  extent,  dealing  in  mounted  animals  of  all 
kinds.  A number  of  his  specimens  he  has  captured  himself,  for  he  is  a success- 
ful hunter  and  has  brought  home  more  than  twenty  deer. 

Mr.  Moore  owns  the  residence  in  which  the  family  have  lived  since  1891, 
and  there  he  makes  his  home  with  his  two  sisters.  He  belongs  to  the  Equitable 
Fraternal  LTnion  and  is  a devout  member  of  the  Methodist  church.  He  votes 
independently,  supporting  men  and  measures  rather  than  parties  and  he  is  inter- 
ested in  public  affairs  cooperating  heartily  in  all  progressive  public  measures. 
Although  still  a young  man  he  has  already  attained  a creditable  place  in  business 
circles  and  his  industry  and  ability  will  undoubtedly  bring  him  rapid  and  steady 
advancement. 


LEO  C.  WEYENBERG. 

Leo  C.  Weyenberg,  secretary  and  treasurer  of  the  L.  \V.  Shoe  Company  and 
an  important  factor  in  the  success  which  places  it  among  the  leading  mercantile 
concerns  of  Chippewa  Falls,  is  a native  son  of  the  city,  born  November  4,  1886. 
his  parents  being  William  and  Angeline  (De  Kelver)  Weyenberg.  The  father 
lived  in  Milwaukee  for  a number  of  years  and  there  founded  the  Weyenberg 


396 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Shoe  Manufacturing  Company,  which  is  today  one  of  the  largest  industrial  con- 
cerns of  its  kind  in  the  city.  He  afterward  sold  his  interest  to  his  brother  and 
nephew  and  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  joined  his  sons  in  the  organiza- 
tion of  the  L.  W.  Shoe  Company,  of  which  he  remained  the  active  head  for  a 
number  of  years.  He  and  his  wife  make  their  home  in  that  city  and  are  well 
known  and  widely  respected  there. 

Eeo  C.  Weyenberg  acquired  his  education  in  the  Notre  Dame  Catholic  school 
in  Chippewa  Falls,  which  he  left  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  Immediately  afterward 
he  became  connected  with  the  Weyenberg  Shoe  Manufacturing  Company  in  Mil- 
waukee and  there  he  attended  school  for  one  year,  remaining  employed  at  the 
same  time.  When  his  parents  returned  to  Chippewa  Falls  he  accompanied  them, 
entering  the  store  which  his  father  had  established  there.  After  about  two  years 
he  and  his  father  organized  the  F.  W.  Shoe  Company  and  Feo  C.  Weyenberg 
has  since  been  secretary  and  treasurer  of  this  concern.  It  has  had  a rapid  and 
steady  growth  and  he  has  discharged  his  important  duties  connected  with  its 
management  in  a capable  and  energetic  way.  He  has  had  long  experience  in 
the  shoe  business  and  understands  it  in  principle  and  detail,  possessing  also  the 
energy  and  business  ability  necessary  for  success  in  any  line. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  20th  of  June,  1911,  Mr.  Weyenberg  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Rose  De  Kelver,  a daughter  of  Frank  and  Mary  (Vincent) 
De  Kelver.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Weyenberg  are  the  parents  of  a son,  Leo  A.  The 
family  reside  at  5 North  Prairie  street,  in  a house  which  Mr.  Weyenberg  has 
recently  purchased  and  is  now  remodeling. 

Mr.  Weyenberg  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus  and 
is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs,  voting  for  the  man  whom  he  considers 
best  fitted  for  the  position  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  a young  man  of 
energy  and  resource  and  his  ability  will  undoubtedly  carry  him  forward  into 
still  more  important  relations  with  the  business  interests  of  his  native  city. 


GEORGE  WEISSENBERG. 

Probably  no  farmer  in  Delmar  township  has  attained  greater  success  in  agri- 
cultural pursuits  than  George  Weissenberg,  who  owns  and  operates  a fine  prop- 
erty of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  34.  He  was  born  in  Outagamie 
county,  June  25,  1871,  and  is  a son  of  Francis  X.,  and  Anna  (Brandner)  Weissen- 
berg, natives  of  Germany.  The  father  was  born  in  Baden  in  1832  and  after 
reaching  maturity  followed  farming.  He  came  to  America  in  1850,  and  after 
living  in  various  localities  during  the  following  seven  years,  he  finally  located 
in  Outagamie  county  and  purchased  land.  This  he  developed  and  improved  for 
many  years  thereafter,  retiring  from  active  life  in  1896.  He  died  in  1906. 
His  wife,  who  came  to  Wisconsin  when  she  was  fourteen  years  of  age  still 
makes  her  home  in  Appleton,  Wisconsin.  In  their  family  were  five  children, 
I.ouisa,  became  the  wife  of  Fouis  Wurl,  identified  with  the  Hockworthy  Con- 
struction Company  of  Appleton,  and  they  have  two  children;  Clara,  married  John 
Ward,  a janitor  in  the  schools  at  Appleton,  by  whom  she  has  five  children:  Wil- 
liam, a contractor  and  carpenter  in  Washington;  Edward,  who  is  engaged  in  farm- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


397 


ing  in  Ellington  township,  Outagamie  county,  and  who  married  Miss  Mata  Vogel, 
by  whom  he  has  one  child;  and  George.  George  Weissenberg  attended  the  dis- 
trict school  until  he  was  eighteen  years  ot  age,  dividing  his  time  in  his  childhood 
between  his  studies  and  work  upon  his  father’s  farm.  He  continued  to  aid  in 
the  operation  of  the  homestead  until  he  was  twenty-two  and  then  formed  a partner- 
ship with  his  brother,  Edward,  renting  the  home  property.  At  the  end  of  six 
vears,  Mr.  Weissenberg,  of  this  review,  purchased  forty  acres  from  his  father  and 
operated  this  for  a similar  period  of  time.  Disposing  of  his  holdings,  he  moved 
to  Chippewa  county  and  here  in  1906  bought  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of 
land  on  section  34,  township  29,  range  5 west.  He  has  since  engaged  in  general 
farming  upon  this  property  and  is  well  known  also  as  a breeder  of  pure-blood 
registered  Holstein  cattle,  of  which  he  has  thirty  head.  He  specializes  in  dairy- 
ing and  raises  all  kinds  of  small  grains,  peas  and  potatoes,  these  products  find- 
ing a ready  sale  on  the  local  market. 

George  Weissenberg  married  Miss  Helen  Vogel,  a daughter  of  Herman 
and  Johanna  (Lohrenz)  Vogel,  the  former  a farmer  in  Ellington  township, 
Outagamie  county.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Weissenberg  became  the  parents  of  a daugh- 
ter, Fern,  and  a son,  Wayne.  Mrs.  Weissenberg,  who  attended  the  Oshkosh  Nor- 
mal School,  before  her  marriage  taught  in  Outagamie  County  for  two  years. 

Mr.  Weissenberg  is  a member  of  the  Order  of  Beavers,  president  of  the 
Inter-County  Cattle  Breeders’  Association  of  Stanley  and  a stockholder  in  the 
Stanley  Dairy  and  Warehouse  Company.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to 
the  republican  party.  He  is  one  of  the  most  highly  respected  residents  of  Del- 
mar  township,  and  his  notable  success  has  been  an  imperative  result  of  his  own 
energy,  enterprise  and  progressive  spirit. 


FRANK  S.  WEIGAND. 


Frank  S.  Weigand,  an  enterprising  and  successful  florist  of  Chippewa  Falls, 
who  since  1902  has  owned  large  greenhouses  at  the  corner  of  Grand  avenue  and 
Bay  street,  was  born  near  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  September  7,  1858,  and  is  a son  of 
F.  P.  and  Dorothea  (Hankapp)  Weigand.  The  parents  came  to  America  at  an 
early  date  and  the  father  followed  the  tailor’s  trade  in  various  parts  of  the  United 
States  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  May,  1912.  He  had  long  survived  his 
wife,  who  passed  away  in  1893.  Both  are  buried  in  the  cemetery  at  Athens,  Wis- 
consin. 

Frank  S.  Weigand  acquired  his  education  in  the  parochial  schools  of  Indiana, 
laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  thirteen.  He  afterward  worked  in  factories 
and  on  farms  in  various  localities  until  he  had  attained  his  majority  and  he  then 
moved  to  Wisconsin,  making  his  home  for  the  greater  part  of  the  time  in  Wausau 
and  working  in  mills  as  an  engineer  and  millwright.  He  afterward  spent  some 
time  in  the  lumber  woods,  working  as  a tie  maker,  and  eventually  settled  upon 
a farm,  engaging  in  agricultural  pursuits  for  about  four  years.  When  he  returned 
to  Wausau  he  spent  one  year  employed  in  a dairy  and  then  moved  to  Merrill,  where 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


398 

he  resumed  his  former  occupation.  Here  he  also  first  became  identified  with  his 
present  line  of  business,  working  for  an  enterprising  florist  establishment  in  that 
city  until  1902,  when  he  came  to  Chippewa  Falls.  He  is  today  the  proprietor 
of  a fine  establishment  on  Grand  avenue,  where  he  has  a number  of  greenhouses, 
which  he  erected,  and  he  owns  also  a farm  on  Mansfield  street,  where  he  has 
three  large  greenhouses.  His  undertaking  has  proved  very  successful,  for  he 
has  managed  the  business  carefully  and  practically,  and  is  numbered  today  among 
the  enterprising  and  deservedly  prosperous  business  men  of  the  city. 

In  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  on  the  28th  of  April,  1893,  Mr.  Weigand  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Amelia  Wiese,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peter  Wiese, 
both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Milwaukee.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Weigand  have  had  three  children : Julia,  the  wife  of  Harley  Wilson,  who  is  assist- 
ing Mr.  Weigand  with  the  operation  of  his  farm ; Frank  P.,  Jr.,  who  was  drowned 
June  23,  1913;  and  Josephine,  stenographer  for  Mr.  Frost,  of  the  Soo  line. 

Mr.  Weigand  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs  and  while  residing  near 
Athens,  Wisconsin,  was  chairman  of  Johnson  township.  He  is  a devout  member 
of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights  of 
Columbus  and  the  Maccabees.  Although  one  of  the  recent  arrivals  in  Chippewa 
Falls,  he  has  already  become  an  established  business  factor  here  and,  being  a man 
of  ability,  energy  and  foresight,  is  accounted  a valued  addition  to  commercial 
circles. 


JOHN  A.  DIETRICH. 

For  the  past  thirty-two  years  John  A.  Dietrich  has  been  closely  connected  with 
agricultural  interests  of  Edson  township,  where  he  now  owns  a well  improved 
and  productive  property  and  is  closely  connected  with  substantial  and  represent- 
ative farmers.  He  was  born  in  New  York  state,  April  30,  1854,  and  is  a son 
of  Philip  and  Margaret  (Sucher)  Dietrich,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former  born 
in  1800  and  the  latter  in  1814.  The  father  was  a tailor  by  trade  and  followed 
this  occupation  in  New  York  after  he  came  to  America  in  1827.  In  1854  he 
settled  in  Brown  county,  this  state,  and  there  successfully  engaged  in  farming  until 
his  death,  which  occurred  in  1875.  His  wife  survived  him  some  years,  dying 
in  1881.  They  were  the  parents  of  twelve  children,  three  of  whom  are  still  living, 
George,  William  and  John. 

John  A.  Dietrich  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Brown  county 
which  he  attended  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age,  after  which  he  worked  for 
thirty  years  as  engineer  in  a sawmill.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Edson 
township,  this  county,  and  purchased  eighty  acres  on  section  11,  township 
28,  range  5 west.  In  1891  he  added  forty  acres  in  the  same  section  to  this  property 
and  the  entire  tract  is  under  cultivation,  yielding  increasingly  abundant  harvests 
every  year.  Mr.  Dietrich  operates  a large  dairy,  paying  special  attention  to  the 
sale  of  his  dairy  products,  and  he  is  also  interested  to  some  extent  in  stock-raising, 
keeping  fifteen  head  of  cattle  and  five  horses.  He  is  a stockholder  in  the  Citizens 
State  Bank  of  Stanley  and  in  the  Miller  & Myers  Implement  Company  and  his 
ability  is  recognized  and  respected  in  business  circles. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


399 


On  the  18th  of  June,  1879,  at  Morristown,  Brown  county,  Mr.  Dietrich  married 
Miss  Louisa  Schwartz,  a daughter  of  Daniel  Schwartz,  a farmer  in  Illinois.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Dietrich  became  the  parents  of  five  children.  Luella  married  William 
Turner,  who  is  engaged  in  farming  in  Sawyer  county.  Jennie  passed  away  in 
1907.  She  was  the  wife  of  Bertram  Purchase  and  had  one  son,  Louis.  Mary 
married  John  Lauderbach,  foreman  of  a railroad  section  gang  in  Minnesota,  and 
they  have  become  the  parents  of  a daughter,  Irma  L.  Amanda  married  Fred 
Laderbach,  chef  in  a railroad  house  at  Spooner.  Arthur,  the  youngest  member 
of  the  family,  lives  at  home. 

Mr.  Dietrich  is  independent  in  his  political  beliefs  and  has  filled  a number 
of  positions  of  trust  and  responsibility,  serving  for  five  years  as  road  commis- 
sioner and  for  one  year  as  a member  of  the  school  board.  He  was  one  of  the 
early  settlers  in  Edson  township  and  through  the  years  has  taken  an  active  and 
honorable  part  in  promoting  its  development  and  growth.  At  the  same  time  his 
genuine  personal  worth  and  excellent  qualities  of  character  have  gained  him  the 
high  regard  and  confidence  of  all  who  have  been  associated  with  him. 


OLE  HANSON. 


Ole  Hanson,  who  introduced  tobacco  growing  into  Chippewa  county  and  who 
is  now  specializing  in  this  industry  and  engaging  also  in  dairying  upon  a farm  of 
fifty-two  acres  on  section  26,  Lafayette  township,  was  born  near  Christiania,  Nor- 
way, May  20,  1865,  his  parents  being  Louis  and  Gertie  (Gorina)  Hanson.  The 
father  settled  in  Stoughton,  Dane  county,  this  state,  in  1870  and  there  passed  away 
in  1893,  when  he  was  seventy  years  of  age.  He  is  buried  in  the  cemetery  at 
Stoughton  and  his  wife  survives  him,  making  her  home  at  Cooksville. 

Ole  Hanson  acquired  his  education  in  Brooklyn,  Green  county,  Wisconsin, 
and  laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen.  He  afterward  assisted  with  the 
work  of  the  homestead  until  he  was  twenty-one  and  then  rented  his  father’s 
farm  for  two  years,  after  which  he  spent  three  years  upon  a property  belonging 
to  his  sister.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  bought  a tract  of  fifteen  acres  and  in 
addition  to  its  cultivation  worked  in  the  employ  of  the  Baker  Manufacturing 
Company  as  agent  for  their  pumps  and  windmills.  He  conceived  the  idea  of 
planting  tobacco  on  his  farm,  believing  that  it  could  be  cultivated  in  this  part 
of  the  state  as  successfully  as  in  Dane  county.  The  other  farmers  in  the  locality 
believed  that  the  section  was  too  far  north,  but  Mr.  Hanson  was  convinced  that 
his  plan  was  practical  and  has  since  proved  his  conviction  true.  The  district 
between  Chippewa  Falls  and  Eau  Claire  is  now  well  known  as  an  excellent  tobacco 
growing  section  and  Mr.  Hanson  has  himself  planted  seven  acres  in  tobacco, 
harvesting  abundant  crops  annually.  He  has  added  to  his  holdings  since  his 
original  purchase,  owning  today  fifty-two  acres  on  section  26,  Lafayette  town- 
ship, and  there  in  addition  to  tobacco  growing  engages  also  in  dairying,  keeping 
ten  milch  cows.  He  has  made  excellent  improvements  upon  his  farm,  erecting  a 
fine  residence,  good  barns,  a tobacco  shed  and  a concrete  silo  and  he  has  installed 
modern  machinery  to  facilitate  the  work  of  the  fields. 


400 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  Stoughton,  Wisconsin,  December  25,  1891,  Mr.  Hanson  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Mary  Stensley,  a daughter  of  Peter  and  Annie  Stensley,  the  former 
of  whom  engaged  in  farming  in  Norway  for  a number  of  years.  Both  have 
passed  away  and  are  buried  in  the  cemetery  near  Ulens  Aker,  in  that  country. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hanson  have  become  the  parents  of  eight  children:  Tnger,  resid- 

ing at  home;  Minnie,  also  with  her  parents;  Louis,  who  is  assisting  his  father; 
Alfred;  Axtel ; Emma;  Selma;  and  Nora. 

Mr.  Hanson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republi- 
can in  his  political  beliefs.  For  the  past  three  years  he  has  been  a member  of  the 
side  board  and  his  work  in  this  capacity  has  been  conscientious  and  capable. 
He  has  made  a valuable  contribution  to  the  agricultural  development  of  this 
county  by  introducing  here  a profitable  product  which  can  be  successfully  culti- 
vated. He  is,  moreover,  known  as  a man  of  exemplary  character  and  excellent 
ability  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  confidence  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


SAMUEL  SNYDER. 

Since  1868  Samuel  Snyder  has  been  prominently  connected  with  business 
interests  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  during  that  time  has  seen  a great  deal  of  the 
development  of  the  city,  his  own  well  directed  labors  proving  important  forces 
in  the  general  growth.  The  years  have  brought  him  constantly  increasing  suc- 
cess and  prominence  and  today  he  is  a well  known  architect,  controlling  an  import- 
ant and  representative  patronage.  Lie  was  born  in  Defiance  county,  Ohio,  in 
1843,  and  is  a son  of  Alexander  and  Eva  (Himes)  Snyder,  both  of  whom  have 
passed  away,  the  father  dying  in  1904  and  the  mother  in  1888.  They  are  buried 
in  Ohio. 

Samuel  Snyder  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native 
county,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  nineteen.  In  1862  he  joined  the 
One  Hundred  and  Eleventh  Ohio  Volunteer  Infantry,  serving  in  the  Union  army 
for  three  vears  and  a half  and  receiving  at  the  end  of  that  time  his  honorable 
discharge.  After  the  close  of  hostilities  he  turned  his  attention  to  any  employ- 
ment at  which  he  could  earn  a livelihood,  continuing  thus  at  various  occupations 
until  1868,  when  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  engaged  in  the  building  busi- 
ness. In  the  course  of  time  he  formed  important  business  relations  and  built 
up  a large  patronage,  maintaining  his  first  connection  for  fifteen  years,  during 
which  he  became  known  as  one  of  the  most  forceful  and  farsighted  men  in  the 
city.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  architecture  and  he  has 
since  been  numbered  among  the  leaders  in  that  profession,  his  practical  knowl- 
edge of  building  combining  with  his  artistic  sense  to  give  him  special  excellence  in 
his  chosen  field. 

In  1870,  in  Chippewa  county.  Mr.  Snyder  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss 
Brown,  a daughter  of  Charles  K.  and  Nancy  M.  (Wessell)  Brown,  both  of  whom 
have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Snyder  have 
two  children : Ida  M.,  the  wife  of  Dr.  S.  S.  Cook,  of  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin ; 

and  Charles  R.,  manager  of  the  Tri  State  Telephone  Installing  System  at  St.  Paul. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


401 


Mr.  and  .Mrs.  Snyder  occupy  an  attractive  residence,  which  has  just  been  thor- 
oughly remodeled. 

Mr.  Snyder  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  a member  of  the  Episcopal 
church  and  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  lodge,  and  the  Grand  Army 
of  the  Republic.  In  Chippewa  Falls,  where  he  has  resided  for  forty-five  years, 
he  is  widely  and  favorably  known  not  only  as  a keen,  reliable  and  farsighted 
business  man  but  also  as  a progressive  citizen  and  a veteran  of  the  Civil  war,  to 
whom  the  country  owes  a debt  of  gratitude  that  can  never  be  fully  repaid. 


J.  H.  A.  FOSTER,  M.  D. 

Dr.  J.  H.  A.  Foster,  who  has  been  a practicing  physician  and  surgeon  of 
Cornell  since  April,  19x3,  followed  his  profession  for  twelve  years  prior  to  that 
time  in  Cadott,  coming  to  Chippewa  county  in  November,  1901.  His  birth 
occurred  near  Lindsay,  Ontario,  Canada,  on  the  9th  of  November,  1874,  his  par- 
ents being  Thomas  H.  and  Lucinda  (Bradley)  Foster.  The  family  is  of  old  Irish 
origin.  Thomas  H.  Foster  was  one  of  the  pio*neer  agriculturists  of  Victoria 
county,  Ontario,  there  clearing  a large  farm.  He  passed  away  on  the  25th  of 
March,  1912,  when  eighty-five  years  of  age,  and  was  buried  near  the  old  home 
in  the  little  Britton  cemetery  in  Victoria  county.  His  widow  still  resides  on  the 
homestead.  They  had  five  children,  as  follows:  Rev.  A.  H.,  a Methodist  min- 

ister of  Colborne,  Ontario;  Maria  E.,  who  is  the  wife  of  T.  A.  Newman,  an 
agriculturist  of  Victoria  county;  Maud  F.,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to 
a Mr.  Culbert,  an  electrician  of  Toronto,  Ontario;  C.  W.  S.,  who  operates  the  old 
home  farm;  and  J.  H.  A.,  of  this  review. 

The  last  named  obtained  his  primary  education  in  the  collegiate  institute  at 
Lindsay,  Ontario,  and  was  graduated  therefrom  in  1891.  After  receiving  his 
certificate  he  became  identified  with  educational  work  and  subsequently  served  as 
principal  in  various  schools  of  Victoria  county  and  also  held  a similar  position 
in  Assiniboia.  In  1897  he  entered  Trinity  University  at  Toronto,  which  institu- 
tion conferred  upon  him  the  degree  of  M.  D.  in  1901.  He  then  took  the  state 
examination  at  Oshkosh,  Wisconsin,  and  in  November,  1901,  began  the  practice 
of  his  chosen  profession  in  Cadott,  Chippewa  county,  there  remaining  until  1913. 
Since  April  of  that  year  he  has  maintained  his  office  in  Cornell  and  has  already 
built  up  an  extensive  and  lucrative  practice  which  has  been  accorded  him  in 
recognition  of  his  skill  and  ability  as  a physician  and  surgeon.  He  acts  as  sur- 
geon for  the  Brunet  Falls  Manufacturing  Company  and  is  widely  recognized  as 
a successful  and  able  representative  of  his  profession. 

On  the  25th  of  May,  1909,  at  Cobban,  Wisconsin.  Dr.  Foster  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Edith  Payne,  her  father  being  Delos  Payne,  one  of  the  old 
lumbermen  of  Chippewa  county,  who  resides  at  Cobban.  The  Doctor  intends 
to  erect  a four  thousand  dollar  residence  in  Cornell. 

In  politics  Dr.  Foster  is  a stanch  democrat.  He  served  on  the  village  board 
of  Cadott  and  also  on  the  board  of  health  for  several  terms,  while  for  five 
years  he  held  the  office  of  county  poor  physician,  ever  discharging  his  duties  in 
a highly  commendable  and  satisfactory  manner.  Fraternally  he  is  identified  with 


402 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  the  Knights  of  Pythias  and  has 
received  all  the  honors  in  those  organizations.  Esteemed  in  professional  and 
social  circles  as  well,  his  salient  characteristics  are  such  as  make  for  good  citizen- 
ship in  any  community  and  which  win  the  regard  and  confidence  of  all. 


JOHN  KUHN. 

For  over  a quarter  of  a century  John  Kuhn  has  lived  upon  his  farm  of  eighty 
acres  on  section  34,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  the  years  have  brought  him 
a prominent  place  in  agricultural  circles  of  the  locality  and  that  success  which 
always  follows  earnest  and  persistent  labor.  He  was  born  in  Germany,  February 
22,  1864,  and  is  a son  of  John  and  Catherine  (Bretz)  Kuhn,  also  natives  of  that 
country,  the  former  born  in  1820  and  the  latter  in  1840.  Both  have  passed  away, 
the  father  dying  in  1870  and  the  mother  in  1908.  To  their  union  were  born  five 
children:  Nicholas,  John,  Emma,  Peter  and  Maggie. 

John  Kuhn  attended  public  school  in  Germany  until  he  was  fourteen  years  of 
age,  afterward  working  upon  his  father’s  farm.  He  emigrated  to  America  with 
his  parents  in  1881  and  settled  in  St.  John,  Calumet  county,  this  state,  where  he 
remained  for  one  year  and  a half.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa 
county  and  bought  eighty  acres  of  land  on  section  34,  township  29,  range  5 west. 
He  came  into  possession  of  this  property  in  1883  and  each  year  since  that  time 
has  witnessed  his  increased  prosperity  so  that  he  is  today  a substantial  and  pro- 
gressive agriculturist.  He  keeps  twenty  head  of  cattle  and  five  horses  and  makes 
a specialty  of  dairying,  his  dairy  products  obtaining  a high  price  and  a ready 
sale  upon  the  market. 

Mr.  Kuhn  has  been  twdce  married.  He  wedded  first  Miss  Maggie  Trace, 
who  died  in  1905,  leaving  three  children:  Michael,  Katie  and  Henrietta.  In 

1907  Mr.  Kuhn  married  Miss  Agnew  Replinger  and  she  died  in  1913,  leaving  a 
son,  Burnett. 

Mr.  Kuhn  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Catholic  Order  of  Foresters.  For  seven  years  he  served  in  the 
office  of  road  commissioner  and  rendered  the  township  excellent  service  as  school 
treasurer.  As  a resident  of  Delmar  township  for  thirty  years  he  has  become 
widely  and  favorably  known,  winning  recognition  as  a man  of  high  moral  char- 
acter, industry  and  enterprise. 


ALEXANDER  K.  LINTZ. 

Since  1882  Alexander  K.  Lintz  has  lived  upon  a farm  of  eighty  acres  on 
section  6,  Sigel  township,  and  for  the  past  four  years  has  concentrated  his  atten- 
tion upon  the  development  of  this  property,  although  he  was  for  some  time  prom- 
inently identified  with  hotel  interests  in  Cadott.  He  was  born  in  Oswego  county, 
New  York,  January  6,  1850,  and  is  a son  of  George  L.  and  Julia  (Kellogg) 
Lintz,  natives  of  the  Empire  state,  the  former  born  in  1829  and  the  latter  in  1834. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


403 


The  father  was  a ship  carpenter  by  trade  and  in  1878  came  to  Wisconsin,  settling 
in  Juneau  county.  Here  he  turned  his  attention  to  the  hotel  business  at  Linden, 
retaining  this  connection  until  his  death,  which  occurred  in  1901.  His  widow 
has  also  passed  away,  dying  in  1909.  They  were  the  parents  of  six  children : 
Alexander  K.,  Levy,  Adella,  Emma,  Clara  and  Mary. 

Alexander  K.  Lintz  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  New 
York  state,  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  eighteen.  He  then  became 
connected  with  railroading  as  a brakeman,  holding  this  position  for  four  years, 
after  which  he  moved  to  Marquette,  Michigan,  where  he  spent  a similar  period 
of  time  as  manager  of  a sawmill.  He  next  moved  to  Monroe  county,  Wisconsin, 
and  in  1876  purchased  an  eighty  acre  farm  there.  This  he  sold  after  three  years, 
moving  to  Jackson  county,  where  he  was  for  two  years  in  the  saloon  business. 
At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Trempealeau  county  and  there  engaged  in 
the  conduct  of  a hotel,  meeting  with  gratifying  success  during  the  six  years  of 
his  residence.  Later  he  moved  to  Sigel  township,  purchasing  a farm  of  eighty 
acres  on  section  6.  He  also  bought  the  Commercial  Hotel  in  Cadott  and  oper- 
ated this  from  1882  to  1909,  meeting  with  gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 
He  disposed  of  the  hotel  in  the  latter  year  and  now  devotes  all  of  his  time  to  his 
farming  interests.  He  specializes  in  the  operation  of  a modern  and  sanitary 
dairy,  keeping  twenty-five  milch  cows  and  he  has  been  very  successful,  his  dairy 
products  commanding  a high  price  and  a ready  sale  upon  the  market. 

Mr.  Lintz  married  Miss  Nellie  Lawson,  a daughter  of  Alexander  Lawson, 
foreman  in  an  iron  mill  in  New  York.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Lintz  became  the  parents 
of  three  children.  Charles,  the  eldest,  married  Lydia  Phillips  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  a son,  Orian.  Charles  Lintz  was  for  many  years  the  proprietor  of 
a saloon,  conducting  this  until  his  death,  in  1905.  John  has  also  passed  away, 
his  death  having  occurred  in  1908.  He  married  Miss  Maud  La  Marche  and  to 
them  were  born  five  children,  Bernice,  Harry,  Irma,  Lee  and  Nellie.  Hazel,  the 
youngest,  married  Jesse  Miller,  a cigar  manufacturer  in  Cadott. 

Mr.  Lintz  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  a democrat  in  his  poli- 
tical beliefs,  being  now  a member  of  the  village  board.  In  Cadott  and  throughout 
Sigel  township  he  is  known  as  a public-spirited  and  progressive  citizen,  always 
willing  to  cooperate  in  worthy  public  projects,  and  he  holds  the  esteem  and  con- 
fidence of  all  who  are  connected  with  him. 


PETER  MICHELS. 

A fine  farm  of  eighty  acres  lying  on  section  33,  Delmar  township,  is  the  prop- 
erty of  Peter  Michels  and  in  its  cultivation  he  has  through  his  industry  and 
practical  efforts  surrounded  himself  with  a gratifying  measure  of  prosperity.  He 
is  one  of  the  many  sturdy  and  enterprising  citizens  whom  Germany  has  given  to 
America,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  that  country  August  20,  1862.  His  parents 
were  Peter  and  Mary  (Pritz)  Michels,  also  natives  of  the  fatherland,  the  former 


404 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


born  June  29,  1833,  and  the  latter  in  1838.  They  came  to  America  in  1881,  settling 
in  Calumet  county,  this  state,  where  the  father  engaged  in  farming  for  many 
years.  In  1897  he  sold  his  holdings  and  since  that  time  has  lived  retired  in  Apple- 
ton.  He  and  his  wife  became  the  parents  of  eight  children,  seven  of  whom  sur- 
vive. 

Peter  Michels  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany,  attend- 
ing until  he  was  fourteen  years  of  age.  He  afterward Worked  upon  his  father’s 
farm  until  he  was  twenty-five  and  then  purchased  from  his  father  fifty  acres  of 
land.  This  he  developed  and  improved  for  five  years,  after  which  he  sold  the  prop- 
erty and  moved  to  Chippewa  county,  arriving  here  in  1893.  He  bought  eighty 
acres  of  farming  land  on  section  33,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  there  he  carries 
on  general  farming  and  stock-raising,  keeping  nine  head  of  cattle  and  three  horses. 
He  raises  also  all  kinds  of  small  grain  which  he  sells  in  the  local  markets. 

In  Appleton,  Wisconsin,  on  the  17th  of  April,  1887,  Mr.  Michels  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Pouly,  a daughter  of  Nicholas  Pouly,  a merchant  in 
that  city.  They  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children,  Nicholas,  Hilda,  Jacob, 
Leta,  Alois,  Laura,  Lenora  and  Leo  (twins),  Marie,  Norman,  and  a child  who  died 
in  infancy. 

Mr.  Michels  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church,  is  connected  fra- 
ternally with  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political 
beliefs.  He  is  a man  of  many  sterling  qualities  of  character,  well  known  through- 
out the  community  for  his  uprightness  and  honesty,  and  he  merits  and  enjoys 
the  confidence  of  his  neighbors  and  friends. 


ANDREW  TH RON  SON. 

A fine  property  of  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  section  23,  Lafayette  town- 
ship,  is  owned  by  Andrew  Thronson,  and  its  excellent  condition  is  evidence 
of  his  ability  as  an  agriculturist  and  of  his  life  of  industry  and  thrift.  He  was 
born  in  Eker,  Norway,  December  26,  1848,  and  is  a son  of  Thron  and  Hella 
Thronson,  natives  of  that  locality.  The  father  died  in  1897,  at  the  age  of  seventy, 
and  is  buried  in  Eker.  His  wife  survives  him  and  makes  her  home  in  Drammen. 

Andrew  Thronson  acquired  his  education  in  his  native  country  and  laid  aside 
his  books  at  the  age  of  seventeen.  He  afterward  took  a course  in  the  Agricultural 
College  at  Aas,  near  Christiania,  an  institution  from  which  he  was  graduated  in 
1870.  For  three  years  thereafter  he  managed  large  landed  estates  in  his  native 
country.  He  became  foreman  on  the  Drammen  Shaen  Railroad  but  at  the  end 
of  two  years  he  resigned  this  position  and  came  to  America,  becoming  in  1883 
connected  with  the  Omaha  Railroad.  At  the  end  of  one  year  he  entered  the 
employ  of  the  Wisconsin  Central  and  continued  thus  until  1894.  In  that  year 
he  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section  23,  Lafayette  township,  to 
which  he  has  since  added,  his  holdings  now  comprising  two  hundred  and  forty 
acres.  When  he  moved  upon  the  original  tract  he  found  it  covered  with  a dense 
growth  of  scrub  timber  and  of  this  he  cleared  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  having 
now  two  hundred  acres  under  cultivation.  He  has  erected  excellent  buildings 
upon  the  property,  including  a residence,  a good  barn  and  a cement  silo,  and  he 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


405 


engages  in  mixed  farming,  his  well  directed  efforts  being  rewarded  by  a gratifying 
degree  of  success. 

In  Eker,  Norway,  January  2,  1874,  Mr.  Thronson  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Sophie  Guldbrandson,  a daughter  of  Guldbrand  and  Marn  Anderson.  The 
former  owned  the  Hoanga  farm  near  Eker  and  was  well  known  in  agricultural 
circles  of  that  locality.  Both  parents  have  passed  away.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thronson 
became  the  parents  of  twelve  children,  eight  of  whom  are  still  living : Thomas,  a 
mechanic  in  Tacoma,  Washington;  Axel,  a carpenter  in  Chicago;  Hilda,  who 
married  Borger  Hanson,  a carpenter  at  Rice  Lake,  this  state;  Agnes,  who  married 
John  Brekke,  a manufacturer  of  cabinets  and  other  furniture ; Morris,  a mechanic 
in  Tacoma,  Washington;  Conrad,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  Elvira,  a stenog- 
rapher and  bookkeeper  at  Rice  Lake,  Wisconsin ; and  Mabel,  at  home.  Four 
children  born  to  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thronson  have  passed  away,  Maria,  Gustav  and 
two  others  bearing  the  same  names.  They  are  buried  in  Eker,  Norway. 

Mr.  Thronson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  inde- 
pendent in  his  political  views,  serving  at  the  present  time  as  clerk  of  the  school 
board.  He  is  one  of  the  leading  farmers  of  his  locality  and  his  success  is  due 
entirely  to  his  own  hard  work  and  intelligent  management. 


NICHOLAS  K.  LIGHT. 

Among  the  large  land  owners  and  prosperous  farmers  of  Delmar  township 
and  among  Chippewa  county’s  most  progressive  and  representative  native  sons  is 
numbered  Nicholas  K.  Licht,  engaging  in  general  farming  and  stock-raising  on 
sections  29  and  32.  He  was  born  in  Edson  township,  January  10,  1864,  and  is  a 
son  of  Nicholas  and  Frances  (Ronacker)  Licht,  natives  of  Germany,  the  former 
born  in  1834  and  the  latter  in  1843.  The  father  moved  to  Dodge  county,  Wis- 
consin, with  his  parents  when  he  was  eleven  years  of  age  and  grew  to  manhood 
there,  later  turning  his  attention  to  farming.  He  and  his  wife  are  now  residents 
of  the  town  of  Edson. 

Nicholas  K.  Licht  was  one  of  a family  of  nine  children.  He  acquired  his 
education  in  the  district  schools  of  his  native  township  and  when  he  was  thirteen 
years  of  age,  laid  aside  his  books,  afterwards  assisting  with  the  work  of  the  farm 
until  he  was  twenty-five.  At  that  time  his  father  gave  him  eighty  acres  of  unim- 
proved land,  which  with  characteristic  energy  he  cleared  and  developed,  making 
it  finally  one  of  the  best  farms  in  his  locality.  In  addition  to  this  he  has  recently 
purchased  another  tract  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  this  land  lying  on  section 
32,  township  29,  range  5 west.  Here  he  raises  all  kinds  of  small  grains  and  he 
is  also  especially  interested  in  stock-raising  and  dairying,  all  branches  of  his  activ- 
ities being  important  and  profitable. 

On  the  2d  of  October,  1888,  in  Edson  township,  Mr.  Licht  married  Miss 
Emma  Kuhn,  a daughter  of  John  and  Catherine  (Bretz)  Kuhn,  the  former  a 
pioneer  settler  of  Edson  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Licht  have  become  the  parents 
of  four  children.  William  is  engaged  in  farming  on  eighty  acres  of  land  on  section 
32,  township  29,  range  5 west,  and  married  Miss  Louisa  Lechtner.  The  other 
members  in  this  family  are  Edward.  Agnes  and  Sylvester. 


406 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Licht  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is  identified  with 
the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin  and  St.  Joseph’s  Society.  He  is  a democrat 
in  his  political  belief  and  was  for  two  and  one-half  years  supervisor  of  Delmar 
township.  He  is  one  of  the  oldest  farmers  in  Delmar  township,  in  point  of 
continuous  residence,  having  lived  upon  his  present  farm  for  the  past  twenty-five 
years.  During  that  time  he  has  met  with  gratifying  and  constantly  increasing 
success  and  his  honorable  and  upright  life  has  merited  for  him  the  esteem  and 
confidence  of  all  who  know  him. 


JOHN  C.  HANSEN. 

Well  controlled  ambition,  energy,  resourcefulness  and  enterprise  have  actuated 
John  C.  Hansen  in  all  the  activities  of  his  career  and  have  brought  him  today  to  a 
position  among  the  representative  business  men  of  Chippewa  Falls,  where  since 
1884  he  has  been  well  known  as  an  able  and  successful  building  contractor.  He 
is  a member  of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Construction  Company  and  has  been  a most 
helpful  factor  in  the  success  of  the  business  it  controls.  Mr.  Hansen  was  born 
at  Flemsburg,  Schleswig-Holstein,  Germany,  April  21,  1865,  and  is  a son  of 
Hans  P.  and  Maria  M.  (Jensen)  Hansen.  The  father  was  a wagon  manufac- 
turer in  his  native  country  and  after  coming  to  America  assisted  his  son  in  the 
building  business,  continuing  this  until  his  death  in  1895,  at  the  age  of  seventy- 
three.  He  is  buried  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery  at  Chippewa  Falls  and  his  widow, 
who  passed  away  in  1899,  was  laid  to  rest  near  Flensburg,  in  Schleswig-Hol- 
stein. Although  both  were  natives  of  Germany  the  family  is  of  Danish  origin. 

John  C.  Hansen  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany  and 
laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fourteen  after  which  he  learned  the  mason’s 
trade,  following  this  for  four  \ears.  In  1883  he  emigrated  to  America  and 
settled  first  in  Ashland,  Wisconsin,  where  for  one  year  he  engaged  successfully 
in  the  contracting  business.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls 
and  there  formed  a partnership  with  his  brother  in  the  same  line  of  work.  After 
seven  years  their  association  was  dissolved,  Mr.  Hansen  of  this  review  continuing 
by  himself  for  a similar  period  cf  time,  after  which  he  aided  in  the  organization 
of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Construction  Company,  with  which  he  has  since  been 
connected.  In  the  twenty-nine  years  during  which  he  has  been  closely  identified 
with  business  interests  in  that  city  he  has  superintended  the  construction  of  some 
of  the  most  important  business  blocks  and  residences  here  and  has  indirectly 
aided  in  the  promotion  of  industrial  and  commercial  expansion  and  growth.  He 
was  only  twenty-one  years  of  age  when  he  built  the  Metropolitan  block,  the 
largest  office  building  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  since  that  time  his  success  has  been 
continuous  and  has  connected  him  with  most  of  the  important  building  operations 
in  the  city.  The  Chippewa  Falls  Construction  Company  employs  four  hundred 
men  and  has  carried  forward  to  successful  completion  the  erection  of  the  Racine 
Insane  Asylum  building  and  is  now  erecting  the  Robert  E.  Debfield  high  school 
at  Duluth,  Minnesota,  its  business  territory  extending  to  all  parts  of  the  state. 
The  company  also  owns  the  Colfax  stone  quarry  from  which  excellent  raw  mate- 
rial is  obtained.  Mr.  Hansen  himself  erected  the  Hansen  Block,  which  is  now 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


407 


his  property  and  he  has  other  important  holdings  of  a similar  character,  being 
ranked  today  among  the  most  substantial  and  progressive  men  of  the  city. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  28th  of  March,  1891,  Mr.  Hansen  was  united  in 
marriage  to  Miss  Bertha  Mahrke,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mahrke,  the 
former  of  whom  met  death  by  drowning  at  Oshkosh,  Wisconsin.  He  was  sur- 
vived by  his  wife  until  1905  and  both  are  buried  at  Wrightstown  this  state.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Hansen  have  become  the  parents  of  five  children:  Elfrieda,  who 

married  Arthur  Durch,  a clerk  in  the  Chippewa  Falls  postoffice;  Walter,  who 
is  assisting  his  father;  Victor,  a student  in  the  Chippewa  Falls  high  school;  and 
Martha  and  Arthur,  who  are  attending  school.  The  family  reside  in  an  attrac- 
tive home  at  No.  215  North  Prairie  street,  a dwelling  which  Mr.  Hansen  erected, 
and  they  are  well  known  in  social  circles  of  the  city. 

Mr.  Hansen  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  is  a member  of  the  German 
Lutheran  church.  He  is  a man  of  foresight,  experience  and  unusual  business 
ability  and  throughout  the  years  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  Falls  has  been  an 
important  factor  in  the  advancement  of  the  community  along  all  lines  of  growth. 


IRA  J.  KINGSLAND. 

Ira  J.  Kingsland  who  carries  on  general  farming  in  Lafayette  township  has 
a tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  situated  partly  on  section  8 and 
partly  on  section  17.  Almost  forty  years  have  come  and  gone  since  he  took  up 
his  abode  in  this  county,  being  at  that  time  a youth  of  thirteen  years.  He  was 
born  in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  February  27,  1861,  and  is  a son  of  Isaac  and 
Harriet  (Phillips)  Kingsland.  The  father  was  a farmer  by  occupation  but  at 
the  time  of  the  Civil  war  put  aside  all  business  and  personal  affairs  in  order  to 
aid  his  country  to  preserve  the  union.  He  was  killed  in  battle  and  thus  gave  his 
life  as  a sacrifice  to  the  cause  which  he  had  espoused.  His  widow  survived  him 
until  1882,  and  was  laid  to  rest  in  the  Lafayette  cemetery.  He  came  of  an  old 
American  family  of  English  origin,  the  first  ancestor  in  this  country  having 
crossed  the  Atlantic  in  the  Mayflower.  One  of  his  descendants,  Nathaniel  Kings- 
land, fought  throughout  the  Revolutionary  war  and  in  days  of  peace  engaged  in 
the  work  of  the  ministry,  preaching  in  the  first  Trinity  Church  of  New  York 
city,  which  was  then  a log  building. 

Ira  J.  Kingsland  thus  has  reason  to  be  proud  of  his  ancestral  record.  His 
own  life  too  has  been  a creditable  one,  actuated  by  honorable  purposes  and  fol- 
lowed by  good  results.  He  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Eau  Claire,  but  at 
the  early  age  of  nine  years  put  aside  his  text  books.  He  was  hardly  beyond  his 
infancy  at  the  time  of  his  father’s  death.  Some  years  later  he  went  to  live  with 
relatives  for  whom  he  worked  between  the  ages  of  nine  and  sixteen  years.  He 
then  sought  employment  in  the  lumber  woods  and  on  the  drive  on  the  river, 
being  thus  engaged  until  he  attained  his  majority.  He  next  took  up  railroading 
and  was  employed  as  a brakeman  and  conductor  on  the  Wisconsin  Central  for 
twelve  years.  In  1894  he  was  appointed  to  a position  on  the  police  force  of 
Chippewa  Falls  and  acted  in  that  capacity  for  two  years.  In  1896,  however,  he 


408 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


took  up  his  abode  upon  his  present  farm,  which  was  a tract  of  wild  and  undevel- 
oped land  covered  with  a dense  growth  of  timber.  No  road  led  from  his  place 
and  because  of  its  primitive  condition  it  was  an  arduous  task  to  clear  and  develop 
the  farm.  He  never  hesitated  in  his  undertaking  but  carried  forward  the  work 
of  cultivation  and  improvement  from  early  spring  until  late  autumn  while  the 
winter  months  were  devoted  to  work  in  the  woods.  For  some  years  he  has  made 
a specialty  of  the  dairy  business  and  finds  it  a profitable  source  of  income.  He 
also  carries  on  general  farming  and  has  so  managed  his  business  affairs  as  to 
win  success  being  now  numbered  among  the  leading  and  representative  agricultur- 
ists of  the  county.  He  is  also  a stockholder  in  the  Lafayette  Cooperative  Creamery 
and  in  the  Melville  Settlement  Telephone  Company.  He  brooks  no  obstacles  that 
can  be  overcome  by  persistent  and  honorable  effort  and  the  straightforward 
methods  which  he  follows  have  gained  for  him  the  high  regard  of  all  with  whom 
he  has  been  brought  in  contact. 

Mr.  Kingsland  was  married  in  Chippewa  Falls,  April  6,  1881,  to  Miss  Stella 
Dumply,  a daughter  of  John  and  Martha  Dumply,  the  former  a boat  builder  of 
Eau  Claire,  who  passed  away  in  1893.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Kingsland  have  had  three 
children  ; George,  an  engineer  of  the  Soo  line;  Jessie,  the  wife  of  Forest  Bateman, 
a farmer  of  Sigel  township ; and  Walter,  who  met  death  in  a cave  at  the  age  of  nine 
years  and  was  buried  in  the  Bateman  cemetery. 

Mr.  Kingsland  holds  membership  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows 
and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  His  political  support  is  given  to  the 
republican  party  and  he  has  held  some  local  offices,  having  served  as  assessor  and 
chairman  of  the  township  of  Lafayette.  His  success  may  be  attributed  to  hard 
work  and  intelligent  management  and  his  good  qualities  as  manifest  in  business 
and  social  relations  have  made  him  a popular  citizen  of  Chippewa  county. 


HON.  JOHN  W.  THOMAS. 

Hon.  John  W.  Thomas  left  and  is  leaving  the  impress  of  his  individuality  upon 
the  history  of  county  and  state  and  the  record  is  one  which  reflects  credit  and  honor 
upon  the  people  who  have  honored  him  in  choosing  him  for  high  positions  of 
political  preferment.  His  sterling  worth  is  everywhere  recognized  and  his  sub- 
stantial qualities  have  made  him  one  of  the  foremost  citizens  of  Wisconsin.  He 
makes  his  home  on  a farm  of  two  hundred  fifty-six  acres  on  section  7,  Anson 
township,  and  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  fifty-six  years,  or 
since  1857.  He  was  a lad  of  but  eleven  years  at  the  time  of  his  arrival,  his  birth 
having  occurred  in  south  Wales  on  the  3lst  March,  1846.  He  is  a son  of 
Stephen  and  Sarah  (Evans)  Thomas.  The  parents  died  in  the  Cherry  flats  and 
were  laid  to  rest  in  the  Welsh  cemetery  in  Tioga  county,  Pennsylvania. 

fohn  W.  Thomas  was  very  young  when  the  family  home  was  established  in 
Pennsylvania,  where  he  began  his  education  as  a public-school  pupil.  He  came 
to  Wisconsin  with  the  family  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Richard  Copp,  who  reared  him 
and  whom  he  assisted  in  the  work  of  pioneer  settlement.  He  was  left  an  orphan 
at  the  age  of  seven  and  although  he  was  but  eleven  years  of  age  when  he  came 
to  this  state,  he  drove  a team  for  Mr.  Copp  all  the  long  way  from  Pennsylvania  to 


MR.  AND  MRS.  .J.  W.  THOMAS 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


411 


Chippewa  county.  The  family  with  whom  he  lived  settled  in  the  town  of  Anson 
and  again  he  had  opportunity  to  attend  school  to  some  extent,  but  spent  much 
time  in  farm  work,  aiding  Mr.  Copp  in  developing  and  improving  his  land.  When 
he  was  a youth  of  seventeen,  his  patriotic  spirit  was  aroused  by  the  attempt  of  the 
south  to  overthrow  the  union,  and  he  offered  his  services  to  the  government  enlist- 
ing as  a member  of  the  Thirty-sixth  Wisconsin  Volunteer  Infantry,  with  which 
he  served  until  the  close  of  the  war.  He  participated  in  the  brilliant  movements 
of  his  regiment  during  General  Grant’s  campaign  of  1864  before  Richmond  and 
Petersburg.  When  hostilities  were  over  and  the  country  no  longer  needed  his 
aid,  he  returned  to  the  north  and  has  since  been  identified  with  farming  interests 
in  Chippewa  county. 

It  was  his  intention  to  attend  college,  but  ill  health,  prevented  and  the  money 
which  he  had  saved  for  that  purpose  was  invested  in  real  estate.  He  became  the 
owner  of  a tract  of  wild  land  which  he  cleared  and  placed  under  cultivation.  From 
time  to  time  he  added  to  his  first  purchase  until  his  holdings  were  quite  extensive. 
He  has  always  retained  possession  of  the  old  home  place  and  in  connection  with  the 
cultivation  of  his  crops  has  engaged  extensively  in  the  dairy  business,  which,  by 
reason  of  his  capable  management,  has  proven  a success.  He  has  always  wisely 
used  the  opportunities  which  have  come  to  him  and  is  recognized  as  a man  of 
sound  business  judgment  and  keen  discrimination  as  well  as  of  unfaltering  energy. 
In  addition  to  his  other  business  interests,  he  is  president  and  manager  of  the 
Jim  Falls  Cooperative  Butter  & Cheese  Company,  which  is  a paying  enterprise 
and  constitutes  one  of  the  chief  productive  industries  of  Jim  Falls. 

Aside  from  his  business  connections,  Mr.  Thomas  is  prominently  known  through 
his  political  activity  and  is  a recognized  leader  of  the  republican  party  in  Chippewa 
county,  various  political  honors  having  been  accorded  him.  Fie  served  as  chair- 
man of  the  county  board  for  several  terms  and  was  elected  to  the  office  of  county 
treasurer.  He  was  likewise  secretary  to  the  Chippewa  County  Agricultural 
Society  for  eight  years  and  did  much  to  stimulate  an  interest  in  improved  agri- 
cultural methods.  His  high  standing  in  agricultural  circles  is  indicated  in  the 
fact  that  in  1897  appointment  of  the  governor  made  him  a member  of  the  State 
Board  of  Agriculture  and  in  1899  he  was  reappointed  for  three  years,  at  the  end 
of  which  time  he  declined  the  third  appointment.  In  18(34  the  republican  party 
of  Chippewa  county  elected  him  to  represent  the  second  district  in  the  state 
legislature  and  he  was  reelected  in  1896,  1898  and  1900,  serving,  in  all,  four  con- 
secutive terms,  during  which  period  he  made  a most  excellent  record  as  a legis- 
lator, faithful  to  the  interests  of  his  constituents  and  loyal  to  the  welfare  of  the 
state.  He  was  again  called  to  public  office  in  1902,  being  elected  railroad  com- 
missioner. He  was  reelected  in  1904  and  in  1908  was  again  called  to  the  legis- 
lative department  of  state  service,  being  elected  senator  from  his  district  by  a 
flattering  majority.  He  was  connected  with  much  important  constructive  legisla- 
tion and  did  much  toward  guiding  and  directing  the  destinies  of  the  state  while  a 
member  of  the  house  and  of  the  senate.  Mr.  Thomas  was  active  in  the  railroad 
investigation  which  resulted  in  no  longer  giving  rebates  to  shippers  and  in  collec- 
tion of  a large  amount  of  back  taxes. 

At  Bloomer,  Wisconsin,  on  the  29th  of  February,  1868,  Mr.  Thomas  was 
married  to  Miss  Marcella  M.  Fuller,  a daughter  of  Daniel  and  Sarah  Fuller,  of 

Bloomer,  the  father  a pioneer  farmer  of  Chippewa  county,  upon  a part  of  whose 
Vol.  11—22 


412 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


farm  the  town  of  Bloomer  was  built.  Both  he  and  his  wife  are  deceased  and 
their  graves  were  made  in  Bloomer  cemetery.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thomas  have  a 
daughter,  Sarah,  the  wife  of  Fred  Hartzell,  who  is  secretary-treasurer  and  the 
active  manager  of  the  Jim  Falls  Cooperative  Butter  & Cheese  Company.  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Hartzell  reside  with  their  parents  and  they  have  four  children : Miriam 
and  Robert,  who  are  attending  school ; and  Lloyd  and  Norma,  who  are  at  home. 

Mr.  Thomas  is  a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  and  in 
fact  is  the  oldest  representative  of  the  organization  in  the  county,  in  years  of 
continuous  connection  therewith.  He  occupies  a fine  residence  upon  his  farm  on 
section  7,  Anson  township,  and  has  splendidly  improved  the  property.  There 
are  large  barns  and  outbuildings  and  all  modern  equipments  of  the  model  farm 
are  here  to  be  found.  Mr.  Thomas  was  the  first  in  north  Wisconsin  to  own  a 
silo  and  he  has  ever  displayed  an  enterprising  spirit  in  carrying  on  his  farm  inter- 
ests. He  possesses  excellent  business  ability  and  when  upon  his  retirement  from 
the  office  of  railroad  commissioner  he  was  elected  president  of  the  Jim  Falls 
Cooperative  Butter  & Cheese  Company,  he  bent  his  energy  to  the  development  of 
a business  which  was  then  in  a precarious  condition.  The  company  was  in  debt 
and  the  future  seemed  dark,  but  Mr.  Thomas  at  once  took  hold  of  the  business 
and  under  his  guidance,  it  has  been  developed,  its  output  being  increased  from 
eighty-three  thousand  to  three  hundred  and  fifty  thousand  pounds  of  butter  annu- 
ally. It  is  characteristic  of  Mr.  Thomas  that  he  accomplishes  what  he  undertakes, 
whether  in  business  affairs  or  in  public  life  and  at  all  times  he  is  actuated  by  a 
spirit  of  enterprise  and  honor  that  has  made  him  one  of  the  most  valued  citizens 
of  his  county  and  state. 


JOHN  B.  GALBRAITH. 


In  Stanley  and  throughout  Chippewa  county  John  B.  Galbraith  is  known  as 
a man  who  understands  the  lumber  business  in  principle  and  detail  and  who  has 
made  capable  and  effective  use  of  this  knowledge  during  his  twenty-four  years 
of  service  in  the  office  of  superintendent  of  woods  for  the  Northwestern  Lumber 
Company.  He  was  born  in  Speaker  township,  Sanilac  county,  Michigan,  Septem- 
ber 25,  1859,  a son  of  Alexander  G.  and  Adeline  (Stevens)  Galbraith,  natives  of 
Canada.  The  father  went  to  Michigan  as  a young  man  and  farmed  in  that  state 
until  his  death  which  occurred  in  1865.  His  wife  has  also  passed  away.  They 
had  two  children  : John  B.  and  Walter. 

John  B.  Galbraith  acquired  his  education  in  district  school  No.  16,  Pontiac, 
Michigan,  attending  until  he  was  nineteen  years  of  age.  He  then  spent  two  years 
upon  the  farm  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  secured  a position  as  a lumber  scaler 
under  Albert  Pack,  a noted  lumberman  of  that  time,  working  for  him  for  eighteen 
years  and  becoming  thoroughly  familiar  with  the  lumber  business.  He  then 
became  connected  with  the  Northwestern  Lumber  Company  as  superintendent  of 
woods  and  since  that  time  has  held  this  responsible  position,  gaining  during  the 
years  the  confidence  and  regard  of  his  employers  and  the  respect  and  esteem  of 
his  associates.  Mr.  Galbraith  is  a director  in  the  Stanley,  Merrill  & Phillips  Rail- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


413 


way  and  he  owns  considerable  property,  including  a comfortable  residence  in 
Stanley  and  land  on  sections  6 and  21,  Taylor  township. 

On  the  20th  of  August,  1884,  in  Port  Huron,  Michigan,  Mr.  Galbraith  mar- 
ried Miss  Sylvia  Cole,  a daughter  of  John  and  Martha  (Moony)  Cole,  the  former 
a prominent  lumberman  of  that  city.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Galbraith  have  two  children  : 
Walter  A.,  a lumber  scaler;  and  John  M.,  identified  with  an  engineering  corps 
at  Cornell. 

Mr.  Galbraith  is  a Chapter  Mason  and  is  connected  also  with  the  Benevolent 
Protective  Order  of  Elks.  He  is  a member  of  the  Presbyterian  church  and  gives 
his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  served  as  alderman  of  the 
third  ward  for  four  years  and  proved  a very  capable  official,  standing  always  on 
the  side  of  right  and  progress.  His  worth  is  widely  acknowledged,  his  business 
ability  having  gained  him  prominence  in  his  commercial  connections  and  his  integ- 
rity standing  as  an  unquestioned  fact  in  his  career. 


JOSEPH  BARCUME. 

In  the  business  circles  of  Bloomer  the  name  of  Joseph  Barcume  is  synonymous 
with  enterprise,  diligence  and  determination.  He  accomplishes  what  he  under- 
takes and  as  the  years  go  by  achieves  success  as  a reward  of  earnest  and  intel- 
ligently directed  efforts.  He  is  president  of  the  Bank  of  Bloomer  and  of 
the  Bloomer  Machine  Company  and  in  these  connections  contributes  much  to  the 
business  growth  and  development  of  the  city  in  which  he  lives.  New  York  claims 
him  as  a native  son,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Franklin  county,  that  state.  His 
father,  John  Barcume,  was  a native  of  Canada  and  after  living  for  a time  in  the 
Empire  state  moved  westward  to  southern  Wisconsin  where  he  engaged  in 
farming.  Pie  died  in  Roxburg,  Wisconsin,  at  the  age  of  sixty-five  years,  both  he 
and  his  wife  passing  away  when  their  son  Joseph  was  ten  years  of  age. 

Joseph  Barcume  is  the  only  son  of  the  family  now  living.  Upon  the  death 
of  his  parents  he  began  working  for  farmers  of  the  neighborhood  and  was  thus 
employed  until  the  Civil  war  broke  out.  His  patriotic  spirit  prompted  his  enlist- 
ment and  he  became  a member  of  Company  K,  Second  Wisconsin  Infantry  with 
which  he  served  for  three  years  and  eight  months.  He  saw  the  last  cannon  fired 
by  the  confederates  before  the  surrender  of  Lee.  He  was  a brave  and  loyal 
soldier  faithful  to  duty  and  he  participated  in  various  battles  including  the  engage- 
ment at  Fredricksburg,  the  second  battle  of  Bull  Run,  South  Mountain,  Antietam, 
Gettysburg,  The  Wilderness,  Petersburg,  Appomatox  and  numerous  others.  His 
brigade  took  part  in  thirty-one  battles  and  Mr.  Barcume  participated  in  twenty- 
five  of  these.  He  was  wounded  in  the  battle  of  the  Wilderness.  Ever  faithful 
to  duty  he  made  an  excellent  reputation  as  a soldier  and  returned  home  with  a 
military  record  of  which  he  has  every  reason  to  be  proud. 

Following  the  close  of  the  war  Mr.  Barcume  came  to  Cooks  Valley  in  Chippewa 
county  and  there  engaged  in  farming  until  about  twenty-five  years  ago  when  he 
moved  to  Bloomer.  He  was  in  the  elevator  business  with  J.  B.  Kahl  of  Chippewa 
Falls  for  some  time,  but  about  five  years  ago  disposed  of  his  interest  in  that  busi- 
ness in  which  he  had  been  very  successful.  He  was  one  of  the  men  who  reorgan- 


414 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


ized  the  Bank  of  Bloomer  and  has  been  its  president  for  about  three  years.  The 
bank  is  capitalized  for  ten  thousand  dollars  and  its  other  officers  are  William 
Larson,  vice  president,  and  A.  T.  Newman,  cashier.  On  the  board  of  directors 
in  addition  to  the  officers  are  O.  A.  Abrahamson,  L.  M.  Newman  and  Mr.  McKin- 
non. The  bank  is  in  a flourishing  condition,  is  conducting  general  banking  business 
and  its  success  is  due  in  large  measure  to  the  enterprising  methods  and  safe 
conservatism  of  the  president.  Mr.  Barcume  aiso  has  other  business  interests, 
being  president  of  the  Bloomer  Machine  Works.  They  do  all  kinds  of  machine 
work  including  the  building  of  gasoline  engines  and  that  the  industry  is  one  of 
the  largest  business  concerns  of  the  city  is  indicated  by  the  fact  that  employment 
is  furnished  to  about  thirty  men.  The  officers  of  the  company  are  Joseph  Bar- 
cume, president;  Wm.  Larson,  vice  president  and  Torphen  Thompson,  secretary 
and  treasurer. 

Mr.  Barcume  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Chase,  a native  of  Ohio,  but  in  1908 
was  called  upon  to  mourn  the  loss  of  his  wife  who  died  at  the  age  of  fiftv-five 
years.  In  politics  Mr.  Barcume  is  a prohibitionist  and  his  religious  faith  is  that 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church.  This  fact  indicates  much  of  the  nature  of  his 
interest  and  the  rules  which  govern  his  conduct.  He  is  not  only  recognized  as  an 
enterprising  and  prosperous  business  man  but  also  as  an  upright  and  honorable 
one  and  as  the  years  go  by  is  making  a record  which  anyone  might  envy,  for  with 
him  prosperity  and  an  honorable  name  have  been  synonymous. 


HENRY  F.  POWERS. 

Henry  F.  Powers,  proprietor  of  a livery  stable  and  a well  appointed  under- 
taking establishment  in  Chippewa  Falls,  is  a native  son  of  that  city  and  was 
born  on  the  spot  where  his  business  concern  now  stands,  March  3,  1866.  PI  is 
parents  were  Morris  and  Mary  (Grady)  Powers,  natives  of  Ireland,  who  came 
to  Chippewa  county  at  an  early  date.  Here  the  father  established  the  first  sawmill 
in  Chippewa  Falls  and  later  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  dying  upon  his  hold- 
ings January  28,  1901.  His  wife  survived  him  until  April,  1912,  and  both  are 
buried  in  the  Mount  Calvary  Catholic  cemetery. 

Henry  F.  Powers  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Tilden  and 
laid  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  fifteen.  He  then  spent  twenty-one  winters  in 
the  lumber  woods,  assisting  his  father  on  the  farm  during  the  summers  and  con- 
tinuing thus  until  1903,  when  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  established  his 
present  enterprise  on  the  corner  of  Bay  street  and  Grand  avenue.  He  carries 
a fine  line  of  caskets  and  funeral  supplies  and  a liberal  patronage  is  accorded 
him,  for  his  prices  are  reasonable  and  his  integrity  above  all  question.  In  con- 
nection with  his  undertaking  concern  he  also  conducts  a livery  stable  and  by  his 
able  management  has  made  this  branch  of  his  enterprise  profitable  and  important. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  25th  of  November,  1905,  Mr.  Powers  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Edith  O’Brien,  a daughter  of  Daniel  and  Mary  (Murphy) 
O’Brien,  the  former  a pioneer  farmer  of  Chippewa  county.  Both  have  passed 
away  and  are  buried  in  Cooks  Valley.  Mr.  Powers  is  a member  of  the  Roman 
Catholic  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Knights  of  Columbus,  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


415 


Catholic  Order  of  Foresters  and  the  Fraternal  Reserve  Association.  He  is  inde- 
pendent in  his  political  views,  voting  for  the  man  whom  he  considers  best  fitted 
for  the  position  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  widely  and  favorably  known 
in  his  native  city,  having  based  a substantial  degree  of  success  upon  industry, 
reliability  and  integrity. 


JOHN  OAKLAND. 

Among  the  most  progressive  citizens  and  substantial  agriculturists  of  Chippewa 
county  is  numbered  John  Oakland,  who,  in  connection  with  his  brother,  owns  one 
of  the  best  improved  and  most  competently  managed  farms  in  Sigel  township. 
He  was  born  in  Dane  county,  this  state,  March  4,  i860,  and  is  a son  of  John  B. 
and  Carrie  Oakland,  natives  of  Norway,  the  former  born  in  1823  and  the  latter 
in  1830.  They  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1853,  settling  in  Primrose  township,  Dane 
county,  where  the  father  engaged  in  agricultural  pursuits  until  his  death,  which 
occurred  in  1907.  He  had  survived  his  wife  some  time,  her  death  having  occurred 
in  1890.  Six  children  were  born  to  their  union,  as  follows : Isabelle,  John,  Rhoda, 
Joseph,  Daniel  and  Caroline. 

John  Oakland  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Dane  county, 
laying  aside  his  books  when  he  was  seventeen  years  of  age.  He  afterward  worked 
upon  his  father’s  farm  until  he  was  twenty-one  and  then  removed  to  North 
Dakota,  where  he  remained  for  ten  years.  On  the  14th  of  November,  1898,  he 
came  to  Chippewa  county  and  in  association  with  his  brother  Daniel  purchased 
eighty  acres  of  unimproved  land  in  Sigel  township.  This  they  cleared  and  upon 
it  erected  a modern  six-room  house  and  substantial  outbuildings.  In  1910  they 
added  a new  barn  and  they  have  made  other  important  improvements,  the  farm 
reflecting  everywhere  the  careful  supervision  and  practical  labor  which  they  have 
bestowed  upon  it.  The  brothers  specialize  in  raising  small  grains  and  in  the 
conduct  of  a sanitary  dairy,  the  products  of  which  find  a ready  sale  upon  the  local 
market.  John  Oakland  is  a stockholder  in  the  Clear  Creek  Cheese  Factory  and 
is  recognized  as  an  able  and  resourceful  business  man.  Mr.  Oakland  is  a member 
of  the  Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  interested  in  the 
growth  and  welfare  of  the  community  in  which  he  lives.  Wherever  he  is  known 
he  is  held  in  high  esteem,  for  he  is  a representative  citizen  and  a progressive 
farmer. 


JOSEPH  ZWEIFELHOFER. 

Among  the  most  progressive  and  successful  agriculturists  of  Chippewa  county 
is  numbered  Joseph  Zweifelhofer,  whose  fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  lies  on  section  24,  Howard  township,  and  in  its  neat  and  attractive  appear- 
ance is  a visible  evidence  of  his  life  of  industry  and  thrift.  Mr.  Zweifelhofer 
has  resided  in  this  county  since  1869  but  is  a native  of  Germany,  born  in  1858,. 


416 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


a son  of  Joseph  and  Kate  (Fidler)  Zvveifelhofer.  The  mother  died  in  1904  and 
is  survived  by  her  husband,  who  makes  his  home  in  Tilden  township,  this  county. 

Joseph  Zweifelhofer  was  eleven  years  of  age  when  he  came  to  America  and 
his  education  was  acquired  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county.  This  was 
limited,  however,  for  he  was  obliged  to  lay  aside  his  books  at  a very  early  age 
and  thereafter  he  assisted  his  father  with  the  work  of  the  homestead  for  seventeen 
years,  becoming  during  that  time  familiar  with  the  best  agricultural  methods. 
He  finally  began  farming  independently  upon  the  property  which  he  now  owns 
and  throughout  the  intervening  years  he  has  steadily  carried  forward  the  work 
of  improvement  and  development  until  today  he  is  the  owner  of  a valuable  and 
productive  farm.  His  holdings  comprise  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  on  section 
24,  Howard  township,  and  upon  this  property  he  specializes  in  the  raising  of 
grain,  conducting  also  a profitable  dairy  business. 

In  Tilden  township,  Mr.  Zweifelhofer  married  Miss  Lena  Bloom,  a daughter 
of  Poney  and  Benedicta  Bloom,  both  of  whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in 
Tilden  township.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Zweifelhofer  have  become  the  parents  of  eight 
children,  one  son  and  seven  daughters.  Mr.  Zweifelhofer  is  a member  of  the 
Catholic  church  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  progressive  and 
public-spirited  in  matters  of  citizenship  and  has  held  various  important  public 
offices,  the  duties  of  which  he  has  discharged  in  a capable  and  loyal  manner. 
During  the  forty-four  years  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  county  he  has  become 
known  as  a man  of  high  standards  and  honorable  principles  and  he  merits  and 
holds  the  esteem  and  regard  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


EDWIN  SMITH. 

Edwin  Smith,  a well  known  and  representative  agriculturist  of  Arthur  town- 
ship, is  the  owner  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  31,  town- 
ship 30,  range  6.  He  is  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  of  that  part  of  the  county, 
having  come  there  in  1872  or  more  than  four  decades  ago.  His  birth  occurred 
in  Oxford,  New  Hampshire,  on  the  16th  of  February,  1852,  his  parents  being 
Jonathan  and  Maria  (Bartholomew)  Smith,  who  were  likewise  natives  of  that 
state.  In  1868  they  removed  to  Sauk  county,  Wisconsin,  and  were  there  identified 
with  farming  interests  for  four  years.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period,  in 
1872,  they  accompanied  their  son  Edwin  to  Chippewa  county,  the  father  purchas- 
ing a small  farm  near  that  of  our  subject  and  spending  the  remainder  of  his 
life  thereon.  The  mother  afterward  resided  with  her  son  Edwin  until  she,  too, 
was  called  to  her  final  rest. 

Edwin  Smith  was  a young  man  of  twenty  years  when  in  the  spring  of  1872 
he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  purchasing  eighty  acres  of  land  which  comprises 
the  south  half  of  the  southwest  quarter  of  section  31,  township  30,  range  6. 
This  was  one  of  what  were  known  as  the  hardwood  ridges,  the  property  being 
covered  with  fine  hardwood  trees  and  only  a few  pines.  The  place  was  just  as 
it  came  from  the  hands  of  nature  and  merely  a trail  led  through  the  fvoods. 
There  \vas  no  railroad  in  Chippewa  county,  the  terminus  of  the  road  being  at 
Eau  Claire,  whence  the  Smith  family  traveled  by  stage  to  Chippewa  Falls  and 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


417 


from  that  place  came  to  their  farm  by  ox  team.  The  first  home  of  Edwin  Smith 
was  a log  building,  sixteen  by  twenty-eight  feet,  which  was  covered  with  sawed 
shingles  and  which  remained  his  dwelling  place  for  a quarter  of  a century.  He 
then  erected  the  frame  residence  which  now  stands  on  the  farm  and  also  has  a 
substantial  frame  barn  and  other  buildings.  His  farm  now  embraces  one  hun- 
dred and  sixty  acres  of  land,  eighty  of  which  are  under  cultivation  and  twenty 
or  thirty  of  which  have  been  cleared  for  pasture.  As  above  stated,  he  was  one 
of  the  earliest  settlers  in  his  part  of  the  county  and  has  always  been  industrious 
and  energetic,  enjoying  good  health  and  being  still  active  and  robust  though  now 
more  than  sixty  years  of  age.  For  fifteen  or  eighteen  years  he  worked  in  the 
woods  during  the  winter  seasons,  from  December  ist  until  the  spring,  cutting 
and  hauling  logs,  and  then  until  May  was  engaged  as  a log  driver  on  the  Chippewa 
and  Yellow  rivers.  He  has  a very  vivid  recollection  of  the  early  days  and  relates 
many  interesting  incidents  of  pioneer  times  and  conditions. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Smith  chose  Miss 
Vina  Smith,  the  marriage  ceremony  being  performed  one  mile  north  of  the 
place  where  he  now  resides.  She  was  a.  native  of  Canada  and  a daughter  of 
Albert  Smith,  who  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1877  or  1878.  She  passed  away 
seven  years  ago,  leaving  a family  of  five  children,  as  follows:  Alfred,  who  is 

married  and  resides  in  Cadott;  Edna,  who  gave  her  hand  in  marriage  to  Bert 
Berry,  of  Drywood,  Wisconsin ; Mary,  the  wife  of  Arthur  Roberts,  of  Drywood ; 
Frances,  who  is  the  wife  of  Earl  Libby,  of  Lafayette  township;  and  Grace, 
at  home. 

Mr.  Smith  was  formerly  a republican  in  his  political  views  but  is  now  a sup- 
porter of  the  democracy.  He  served  for  eleven  years  as  a member  of  the  town- 
ship board  of  supervisors  and  acted  as  a member  of  the  school  board  for  many 
years,  severing  his  connection  therewith  in  1912.  His  life  has  been  a busy,  indus- 
trious and  useful  one,  and  his  relative  worth  is  widely  recognized  by  his  fellow 
townsmen. 


J.  A.  MORRISON,  D.  D.  S. 

The  dental  profession  has  a capable  representative  in  Bloomer  in  Dr.  J.  A. 
Morrison,  whose  well  equipped  office  and  efficient  methods  mark  him  as  a pro- 
gressive man  well  qualified  to  undertake  the  delicate  and  onerous  professional 
duties  that  devolve  upon  him.  He  is  thoroughly  conversant  with  the  most  modern 
methods  and  has  practiced  continuously  in  Bloomer  since  completing  his  col- 
lege course  in  1898.  He  is  one  of  Wisconsin’s  native  sons,  his  birth  having 
occurred  in  Monroe  county,  in  1876.  His  father,  E.  J.  Morrison,  was  a native 
of  the  state  of  New  York,  and  is  now  located  at  Chetek,  where  he  is  engaged 
in  the  creamery  business.  He  married  Dora  Prill,  and  they  had  six  children. 

Dr.  Morrison  was  educated  in  the  schools  of  Bloomer  and  in  the  Chicago 
College  of  Dentistry,  in  which  he  prepared  for  the  profession.  He  was  grad- 
uated with  the  class  of  1898  and  came  direct  to  Bloomer,  where  he  opened  an 
office,  having  attractive  and  pleasant  quarters  over  the  Peoples  State  Bank.  His 
office  is  well  equipped  with  modern  dental  appliances  and  in  the  use-  of  delicate 


418 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


instruments  he  displays  notable  skill  and  ingenuity.  He  keeps  in  touch  with  the 
advanced  thought  of  the  profession  and  with  the  most  modern  methods  of 
practice  and  his  patronage  is  gratifying.  He  is  also  president  of  the  Bloomer 
Telephone  Company. 

Dr.  Morrison  was  married  to  Miss  Ella  B.  Cook,  of  Chetek,  and  they  are  well 
known  in  social  circles.  In  politics  he  is  a democrat  and  has  served  as  village 
clerk.  He  exemplifies  in  his  life  the  beneficent  spirit  of  the  Masonic  fraternity, 
holding  membership  in  the  lodge  of  Bloomer  and  he  is  also  a member  of  the 
Congregational  church.  He  has  a wide  acquaintance  and  the  circle  of  his  friends 
is  almost  coextensive  therewith.  He  deserves  the  regard  in  which  he  is  held 
both  socially  and  professionally  and  should  be  mentioned  as  one  of  the  represen- 
tative citizens  of  Chippewa  county. 


BERNARD  RAGEOT. 

Bernard  Rageot,  who  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  the  ’60s  has  since  been 
actively  identified  with  agricultural  pursuits  in  this  part  of  the  state  and  is  now 
residing  on  a tract  of  thirty-three  and  a third  acres  on  section  35,  Washington 
township,  in  Rusk  county,  which  was  cut  off  from  Chippewa  twelve  years  ago. 
His  birth  occurred  in  Canada  in  1838,  his  parents  being  Pierre  and  Mary  Rageot, 
who  spent  their  entire  lives  in  that  country.  In  early  manhood  Bernard  Rageot 
crossed  the  border  into  the  United  States  and  for  two  years  made  his  home  in 
Michigan,  being  a resident  of  that  state  during  the  period  of  the  Civil  war. 
Subsequently  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  here  became  identified 
with  sawmill  and  lumber  interests.  He  also  purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  unimproved  land  from  the  government  and  after  clearing  the  property 
began  its  cultivation,  being  actively  engaged  in  its  operation  until  a few  years 
ago,  when  he  disposed  of  the  place  and  bought  the  tract  on  which  he  now  resides. 
In  the  conduct  of  his  agricultural  interests  he  has  won  a well  merited  measure 
of  success  and  has  long  been  numbered  among  the  substantial  and  esteemed  resi- 
dents of  his  community. 

Mr.  Rageot  was  married  in  Chippewa  county  and  has  a daughter,  Julia,  who 
is  the  wife  of  Richard  Hopkins,  of  Washington  township,  Rusk  county.  The 
religious  faith  of  the  family  is  that  of  the  Catholic  church.  Mr.  Rageot  has  now 
attained  the  ripe  old  age  of  seventy-five  years  and  is  widely  and  favorably  known 
throughout  the  community  which  has  been  his  home  for  about  a half  century. 


H.  M.  TRANKLE,  M.  D. 

Dr.  H.  M.  Trankle,  actively  engaged  in  the  practice  of  medicine  and  surgery 
at  Bloomer,  was  born  in  the  year  1880,  in  the  town  which  is  still  his  home.  His 
father,  Conrad  Trankle,  was  a native  of  Germany  and  after  coming  to  the  new 
world  settled  in  Wisconsin,  where  he  made  his  home  for  many  years.  He  was 
engaged  in  merchandising  in  Bloomer  to  the  time  of  his  death,  which  occurred 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


419 


when  he  was  fifty-five  years  of  age.  After  coming  to  the  new  world  he  wedded 
Tracy  Albright,  a native  of  Wisconsin,  who  has  also  now  passed  away.  They 
had  two  children,  the  younger  being  Mrs.  Ida  Woodard. 

Dr.  Trankle,  whose  name  introduces  this  review,  pursued  his  early  education 
in  the  schools  of  Bloomer,  passing  through  consecutive  grades  and  laying  the 
foundation  upon  which  he  built  his  professional  knowledge.  Having  determined 
to  engage  in  the  practice  of  medicine  as  a life  work,  he  matriculated  in  Rush 
Medical  College  of  Chicago  and  was  graduated  therefrom  on  the  21  st  of  June, 
1901.  He  then  practiced  for  three  years  in  Minnesota  and  in  1904  came  to 
Bloomer,  where  he  has  since  been  located,  occupying  offices  over  the  Peoples  State 
Bank.  He  is  one  of  the  directors  of  that  financial  institution  and  is  recognized 
as  a capable  business  as  well  as  professional  man.  He  keeps  in  close  touch  with 
everything  bearing  upon  the  practice  of  medicine,  reads  broadly,  thinks  deeply 
and  acts  progressively. 

Dr.  Trankle  was  married  in  1907  to  Miss  Blanche  Bickerstaff,  of  Wisconsin,  a 
daughter  of  William  Bickerstaff,  and  unto  them  has  been  born  one  child,  Warren 
Lynn,  now  three  years  of  age.  .Dr.  Trankle  exercises  his  right  of  franchise  in 
support  of  the  men  and  measures  of  the  republican  party  and  keeps  well  versed  on 
the  questions  and  issues  of  the  day.  He  holds  membership  with  the  Masons  and 
with  the  Elks  and  is  loyal  to  the  teachings  of  those  organizations.  Substantial 
qualities  of  manhood  and  of  citizenship  have  made  him  popular,  while  his  pro- 
fessional skill  has  gained  him  recognition  as  an  able  practitioner  of  medicine, 
well  worthy  of  liberal  support. 


frank  McDonald. 

Frank  McDonald  is  one  of  the  extensive  landowners  and  most  progressive 
and  prominent  agriculturists  of  Chippewa  county,  his  holdings  comprising  two 
hundred  and  thirty  acres  of  improved  farm  land  nine  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer 
and  one  hundred  and  thirty  acres  of  timber  land  adjoining.  In  the  management 
of  his  interests  he  has  proved  capable,  resourceful  and  discriminating  and,  although 
he  is  still  a young  man,  has  already  gained  for  himself  an  enviable  position  in 
agricultural  circles  of  this  locality.  He  was  born  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  in 
1881,  and  is  a son  of  Duncan  McDonald,  a native  of  Canada,  who  came  to  the 
United  States  when  he  was  a young  man  and  engaged  in  the  logging  business 
for  thirty-five  years  thereafter.  He  owned  a farm  in  Chippewa  county  north 
of  Bloomer  and  operated  this  property  for  some  time,  dying  upon  it  when  he 
was  nearly  eighty-eight  years  of  age.  He  married  Miss  Lorenge  Neary,  who 
survives  him  and  who  is  still  in  possession  of  the  homestead. 

Frank  McDonald  is  one  of  a family  of  four  children.  He  acquired  his  educa- 
tion in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books 
worked  in  the  lumber  woods  for  ten  winters,  spending  his  summers  assisting  his 
father.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming  upon  property 
north  of  Bloomer,  where  he  remained  until  1909,  when  he  moved  to  his  present 
place,  whereon  he  has  since  carried  on  the  work  of  improvement  and  development 
along  progressive  and  modern  lines.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying 


420 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


and  under  his  able  and  farsighted  management  both  branches  of  his  activities 
have  proved  important  and  profitable. 

Air.  McDonald  married  Aliss  Ida  O’Connell,  and  they  have  become  the  par- 
ents of  two  children,  Maude  and  Kenneth.  Mr.  McDonald  is  a republican  in 
his  political  beliefs  and  a regular  attendant  at  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church. 
He  is  a young  man  of  exemplary  character,  capable  in  business  and  progressive  in 
citizenship,  and  he  holds  the  respect  and  esteem  of  all  who  are  associated  with 
him. 


EMERY  HUTIT. 

An  excellent  farm  of  two  hundred  acres,  situated  five  and  a half  miles  south- 
east of  Bloomer,  is  being  cultivated  and  developed  through  the  efforts  and  energy 
of  Emery  ITuth,  who  is  accounted  one  of  the  enterprising  agriculturists  of  the 
community.  The  place  is  owned  by  his  mother,  and  it  was  upon  this  farm  that 
he  was  born  thirty  years  ago.  He  is  a son  of  Fred  W.  Huth,  a native  of  Germany, 
who,  attracted  by  the  opportunities  of  the  new  world,  bade  adieu  to  friends  and 
native  country  when  about  thirty-five  years  of  age  and  sailed  for  the  United 
States.  He  continued  his  westward  travel  overland  until  he  reached  Wisconsin 
and  then  began  farming  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he  continued  to  make  his 
home  until  called  to  his  final  rest.  He  became  the  owner  of  a tract  of  land  which 
is  now  the  property  of  his  widow,  and  as  the  years  passed  by  he  brought  the 
fields  to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  died  in  1908,  at  the  ripe  old  age  of  seventy- 
five  years,  and  is  still  survived  by  his  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Louise 
Laube.  In  their  family  were  nine  children,  of  whom  three  have  passed  away. 

Emery  Huth  had  the  usual  experiences  of  the  farm  lad  who  devotes  his  time 
to  the  acquirement  of  an  education,  to  the  pleasures  of  the  playground  and  the 
work  of  the  fields.  When  not  busy  with  his  text-books  he  spent  much  of  his 
time  in  assisting  his  father  in  planting,  cultivating  and  harvesting  the  crops  and 
thus  practical  experience  qualified  him  for  the  duties  which  devolved  upon  him 
when  he  took  charge  of  the  farm  which  he  now  operates.  The  two  hundred  acres 
under  his  care  constitute  a well  developed  property  upon  which  substantial 
improvements  have  been  made,  and  a spirit  of  enterprise  and  progress  pervades 
the  entire  place.  Mr.  Huth  is  an  energetic  young  farmer,  carrying  forward  to 
successful  completion  whatever  he  undertakes,  and  the  good  crops  which  he 
annually  gathers  bring  to  him  a substantial  return.  His  political  allegiance  is 
given  to  the  republican  party  and  his  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Lutheran  church. 


SAMUEL  NELSON. 

Samuel  Nelson  owns  and  operates  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  in 
Tilden  township  and  upon  this  property  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying 
and  specializes  in  the  breeding  of  high-grade  Holstein  cattle.  His  sons  are  inter- 
ested with  him  in  the  operation  of  this  property  and  their  business  is  conducted 
under  the  name  of  Nelson  & Sons.  Samuel  Nelson  was  born  in  Norway  in  1S70, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


421 


and  is  a son  of  Nels  Nelson,  a farmer  in  that  country,  who  never  came  to 
the  United  States.  He  married  Miss  Emerinse  Johannason,  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  eight  children. 

Samuel  Nelson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway  and 
in  1890  emigrated  to  America.  He  located  first  at  Muskegon,  Michigan,  and  after 
six  months  moved  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he  began  working  for  Martin 
Rasmus  in  the  woods  and  at  various  other  occupations,  continuing  thus  until 
1899,  when  he  purchased  his  present  farm.  Since  that  time  he  has  improved  this 
with  commodious  barns  and  outbuildings  and  here  engages  in  general  farming 
and  dairying,  making  a specialty  of  breeding  and  raising  high-grade  Holstein 
cattle,  having  a registered  bull  of  the  best  stock  at  the  head  of  his  herd.  In  associ- 
ation with  his  sons,  under  the  firm  name  of  Nelson  & Sons,  he  carries  on  an 
extensive  business  as  a stock  dealer  and  is  numbered  today  among  the  enterprising- 
agriculturists  and  able  business  men  of  his  locality. 

In  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Nelson  married  Miss  Hanna  Christianson,  a sister 
of  C.  L.  Christianson,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  seven  children,  Casper, 
Nels,  Oscar,  Mary,  Helen,  Harold  and  Leona.  Mr.  Nelson  is  a member  of  the 
Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Wood- 
men of  America.  He  has  at  all  times  taken  an  active  interest  in  community  affairs 
and  has  held  various  public  offices,  including  those  of  deputy  sheriff  under 
McCann  and  treasurer  of  the  school  board.  He  has  been  for  many  years  con- 
nected with  educational  interests  and  is  at  present  treasurer  of  school  district 
No.  9,  Tilden  township.  He  is  active  in  all  that  pertains  to  the  substantial  improve- 
ment and  development  of  the  community  and  is  widely  recognized  as  a public- 
spirited  and  progressive  citizen  as  well  as  a capable  and  farsighted  business  man. 


THEODORE  HOMELAND. 

Successful  accomplishment  in  business  results  from  certain  indispensable 
qualities — energy,  determination  and  recognition  of  opportunity.  These  are 
possessed  in  considerable  measure  by  Theodore  Hoveland,  who  is  the  treasurer 
of  the  Bloomer  Land  Company.  He  was  born  in  Minnesota  but  was  reared  in 
Dunn  county,  Wisconsin,  and  is  a son  of  Samuel  Hoveland,  a native  of  Norway, 
who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1865,  settling  in  Minnesota.  After  living  in 
that  state  for  a time  he  came  to  Wisconsin,  taking  up  his  abode  upon  a farm  n 
Dunn  county,  where  he  continued  to  carry  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  until 
his  life’s  labors  were  ended  in  death,  when  he  was  fifty-eight  years  of  age.  He 
w7as  married  in  Norway  to  Miss  Tena  Loftus,  who  is  still  a resident  of  Dunn 
county,  living  at  the  old  homestead  with  a son.  They  were  the  parents  of  thirteen 
children,  eleven  of  whom  are  yet  living. 

Theodore  Hoveland  acquired  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Dunn  county 
and  after  his  text-books  were  put  aside,  came  to  Chippewa  county,  where  he 
engaged  in  the  hotel  and  saloon  business  and  also  conducted  a livery  stable  for 
a part  of  the  time.  He  withdrew  from  that  business  about  a year  ago,  however, 
since  which  time  he  has  been  treasurer  of  the  Bloomer  Land  Company,  with 
Jacob  Radyer  as  president,  and  James  H.  Olds  as  secretary.  This  company 


422 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


handles  improved  farms  and  undeveloped  lands  and  city  property  in  this  section  of 
Wisconsin,  and  also  sells  Texas  lands.  Mr.  Hoveland  has  made  himself  well 
informed  concerning  property  values  and  is  a progressive  real-estate  dealer,  noting 
the  signs  of  the  times  and  placing  upon  the  market  such  property  as  he  has  reason 
to  believe  will  prove  attractive  to  the  purchasing  public.  The  company  enjoys 
substantial  success,  not  a little  of  which  is  due  to  the  enterprising  efforts  of  him 
whose  name  introduces  this  review. 

Mr.  Hoveland  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Hannah  Holverson,  now 
deceased,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  four  children:  Mabel;  William  and 

Frank,  who  are  high-school  students;  and  Della,  also  in  school. 

Mr.  Hoveland  votes  with  the  republican  party  and  keeps  well  informed  on 
the  questions  and  issues  of  the  day.  He  belongs  to  the  Scandinavian  Workmen’s 
Association  and  he  possesses  many  of  the  sterling  characteristics  of  his  Scandi- 
navian ancestry,  including  the  industry  and  enterprise  for  which  the  sons  of 
Norway  are  noted. 


CHRISTIAN  HANSEN. 

When  Christian  Hansen  was  a young  man,  the  attractions  and  opportunities 
of  the  new  world  proved  irresistible  to  him  and  he  sought  a home  on  this  side 
of  the  Atlantic.  Here  he  gradually  worked  his  way  upward  and  is  now  known 
as  a successful  stock  dealer  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  in  Denmark,  in  1861,  and 
is  a son  of  Nels  Hansen.  The  father  never  came  to  the  United  States  and  the 
son  was  reared  and  educated  in  his  native  country,  remaining  there  until  twenty- 
four  years  of  age,  when  he  made  the  long  voyage  to  the  new  world.  He  did  not 
tarry  long  upon  the  Atlantic  coast  but  continued  his  journey  into  the  interior  of 
the  country,  going  first  to  Neenah,  Wisconsin,  where  he  remained  for  a year 
and  a half.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  removed  to  Ashland,  where 
he  remained  for  ten  years,  engaged  in  the  meat  business.  He  next  came  to 
Bloomer,  arriving  in  1896.  He  had  previously  been  buying  stock  here,  beginning 
business  at  this  point  in  1889,  and  he  shipped  the  first  carload  of  stock  from 
this  place.  Since  then  not  a single  month  has  passed  in  which  he  has  not  made 
a shipment  of  stock  from  Bloomer,  and  in  order  to  better  facilitate  his  business 
interests  he  has  lived  here  since  1896.  At  one  time  he  was  the  owner  of  a 
farm  in  this  locality,  but  has  disposed  of  it.  However,  he  owns  one  of  the  best 
residence  properties  of  the  town.  From  the  beginning  he  has  won  success.  He 
employs  a man  who  does  most  of  the  buying,  while  Mr.  Hansen  oversees  and 
directs  the  business.  He  is  himself  an  excellent  judge  of  cattle  and  his  purchases 
and  sales  of  live  stock  have  brought  him  a substantial  annual  return.  In  addition 
to  his  other  interests  Mr.  Hansen  is  a director  of  the  Peoples  State  Bank  and  is 
a stockholder  in  the  telephone  company  of  Bloomer. 

Mr.  Hansen  was  married  to  Miss  Inez  Woodard,  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  two  children:  Alda,  who  was  graduated  from  the  high  school  of 

Bloomer  in  1912  with  valedictorian  honors;  and  Dewey,  whose  birth  occurred 
at  the  same  hour  in  which  Admiral  Dewey  was  winning  his  famous  victory  in 
Manila. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


423 


The  religious  faith  of  the  family  is  that  of  the  Congregational  church  and  to 
its  support  Mr.  Hansen  contributes  liberally.  In  politics  he  is  a republican,  well 
versed  on  the  important  questions  of  the  day,  and  for  seven  years  he  served  on 
the  village  board,  bringing  to  bear  in  the  careful  direction  of  public  affairs  the 
same  spirit  of  enterprise  and  sound  judgment  which  marks  the  management  of 
his  private  business  interests. 


FRED  A.  R.  SCRITSMIER. 

Fred  A.  R.  Scritsmier,  a native  son  of  Auburn  township,  who  owns  and 
operates  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  five  and  one-half  miles  southwest  of 
Bloomer  and  another  tract  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  in  the  same  locality, 
was  born  in  1876  and  is  a son  of  P.  L.  Scritsmier,  a native  of  Denmark,  who 
came  to  the  United  States  with  his  parents  when  he  was  a boy  of  ten.  He  located 
immediately  in  Wisconsin  and  after  reaching  manhood  engaged  in  farming  in 
Chippewa  county  for  a number  of  years.  He  has  now  retired  from  active  life 
and  makes  his  home  at  Long  Beach,  California.  He  married  Miss  Mary  Spies 
and  they  became  the  parents  of  nine  children. 

Fred  A.  R.  Scritsmier  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming  upon  one 
of  his  father’s  properties.  He  continued  to  develop  and  improve  this  farm  until 
he  moved  to  his  present  place  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  in  Auburn  town- 
ship. Upon  this  he  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  and  here  he  carries  on 
general  farming  and  dairying,  his  practical  and  well  directed  labors  being 
rewarded  by  a gratifying  degree  of  success.  He  owns  also  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  near  his  home  farm  and  this  property  he  operates  along  modern  and 
progressive  lines. 

Mr.  Scritsmier  married  Miss  Alice  McFarland  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  two  children,  Lorenzo  and  Violet,  both  of  whom  are  attending  school. 
Mr.  Scritsmier  attends  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church  and  is  independent  in  his 
political  views.  His  entire  life  has  been  spent  in  Auburn  township,  where  he 
has  a wide  acquaintance  and  is  favorably  known. 


THEODORE  ENGER. 

Theodore  Enger  is  among  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county,  culti- 
vating land  on  section  1,  township  31,  range  6,  near  Cornell  postoffice.  He  has 
forty  acres  under  cultivation,  upon  which  he  erected  a modern  house  and 
other  substantial  farm  buildings.  He  was  born  near  Christiania,  Norway,  on 
February  13,  1861,  a son  of  Otto  and  Thea  Enger.  The  father  died  in  Chippewa 
county  about  five  years  ago,  his  wife  having  preceded  him  in  death  while  still  in 
her  native  land.  Theodore  Enger  was  about  twenty-two  years  of  age  when  he 
came  to  the  United  States  and  therefore  received  his  education  in  his  native 
country.  After  coming  to  this  section  he  worked  for  three  years  in  the  employ 


424 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  Daniel  Seymour,  a well  known  banker  of  Chippewa  Falls,  and  then  clerked 
for  five  years  in  a store  in  that  city.  Having  carefully  saved  his  earnings,  he 
was  enabled  to  acquire  title  to  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  fine  land  near 
Cornell,  which  he  improved  and  on  which  he  made  his  home  until  1906,  when  he 
settled  upon  his  present  farm,  selling  his  former  property.  The  forty  acres  which 
he  acquired  were  slightly  improved  and  lie  has  since  improved  most  of  the  land 
and  brought  it  under  cultivation.  He  has  erected  substantial  buildings,  including 
a modern  residence,  a log  barn  and  other  outbuildings.  He  is  progressive  and 
modern  in  his  methods  and  success  has  come  to  him  in  response  to  incessant  and 
closely  applied  efforts. 

Mr.  huger  was  married  in  Norway  to  Miss  Tollena  Nymon,  a native  of  that 
country.  Of  their  twelve  children  three  died  in  infancy,  those  living  being: 
Olive,  the  wife  of  Henry  McKenna,  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Thea,  who  married 
Walter  Doland,  of  St.  Paul,  Minnesota;  Minnie;  Otto,  of  Washington,  D.  C., 
who  for  a time  was  a page  in  the  house  of  representatives  and  is  now  studying 
veterinary  surgery;  Martha,  who  married  Roy  Nash,  of  Pepin,  Wisconsin;  and 
Finney,  Albert,  Thorvel  and  Amand,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Enger  and  family  are  members  of  the  Lutheran  church,  in  the  work  of 
which  they  take  an  active  and  helpful  interest.  Politically  he  is  a republican. 
Such  success  as  has  come  to  him  is  highly  merited,  as  it  has  been  achieved  through 
worthy  methods,  and  it  is  therefore  but  natural  that  Mr.  Enger  in  large  measure 
enjoys  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


ARA  MORRIS  CAM  FIELD. 

Ara  Morris  Camfield,  who  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  three 
decades  and  is  therefore  largely  familiar  with  its  history  from  pioneer  times  to 
the  present,  is  the  owner  of  a tract  of  land  comprising  eighty  acres  on  section  25, 
township  30,  range  7,  and  devotes  his  attention  to  dairy  farming  in  Arthur  town- 
ship. His  birth  occurred  in  Kalamazoo  county,  Michigan,  on  the  30th  of  June, 
1863,  his  parents  being  John  A.  and  Mary  E.  (Herron)  Camfield,  natives  of 
New  York.  The  father,  an  agriculturist  by  occupation,  now  resides  in  Michigan 
but  expects  soon  to  come  to  this  county  to  make  his  home  with  our  subject.  The 
mother  has  passed  away. 

Ara  M.  Camfield  spent  his  boyhood  in  Van  Buren  county,  Michigan,  and  in 
September,  1883,  when  a young  man  of  twenty  years,  came  to  Chippewa  county, 
Wisconsin.  Here  he  purchased  eighty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  26,  township 
30,  range  7,  erected  a dwelling,  improved  the  property  and  continued  to  reside 
thereon  until  1901.  In  that  year  he  disposed  of  the  place  and  bought  a tract 
of  eighty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  25,  where  he  has  remained  continuously 
since.  He  has  cleared  about  forty  acres  thereof  and  his  buildings  include  a log 
house  and  barn.  Mr.  Camfield  devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  dairy  farming 
and  in  that  connection  has  won  a well  merited  measure  of  success.  As  above 
stated,  he  has  lived  in  this  county  since  pioneer  days  and  for  many  years  worked 
in  the  lumber  camps  and  on  the  river.  He  spent  seven  years  in  the  logging  camps 
and  for  three  years  was  engaged  in  logging  on  his  own  account. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


425 


In  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Camfield  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Ella  Wilson, 
a native  of  New  Richland,  Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  by  whom  he  has  four 
children,  as  follows:  Viola,  who  is  the  wife  of  Charles  Jahnke,  a farmer  of 

Arthur  township ; and  Elmer,  Charles  and  Lillie,  all  at  home. 

Mr.  Camfield  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  has 
held  the  office  of  township  assessor  for  two  years,  while  at  the  present  time  he 
acts  as  justice  of  the  peace  and  road  supervisor,  ever  discharging  his  public  duties 
in  a highly  satisfactory  and  commendable  manner.  His  wife  is  a devoted  member 
of  the  Methodist  Episcopal  church.  In  all  the  relations  of  life  Mr.  Camfield  has 
manifested  those  sterling  traits  of  manhood  which  command  confidence  and 
awaken  regard  and  is  therefore  well  worthy  of  the  esteem  uniformly  accorded 
him. 


L.  H.  YOH NIC 

L.  H.  Yohnk  is  a representative  of  one  of  the  well  known  pioneer  families 
of  Chippewa  county,  and  was  himself  but  a lad  of  seven  years  when  brought  to 
America.  He  was  born  near  Kiel,  Germany,  August  23,  i860,  his  parents  being 
John  and  Elizabeth  (Tierfelt)  Yohnk,  who  in  1868  crossed  the  broad  Atlantic 
to  the  new  world  and  traveled  across  the  country  until  they  reached  Jim  Falls, 
Chippewa  county.  The  father  was  first  engaged  in  the  lumber  mills,  but  in  1871 
purchased  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  wild  land  on  section  7,  Arthur  town- 
ship. The  tract  was  covered  with  hardwood  timber  and  there  was  no  road  within 
fifteen  miles.  Mr.  Yohnk  built  a log  house  in  the  midst  of  the  forest  and  began 
the  development  of  a farm,  cutting  away  the  trees,  burning  the  brush,  grubbing 
up  the  stumps  and  continuing  the  work  of  improvement  until  the  forest  tract 
was  converted  into  richly  cultivated  fields.  As  he  prospered  in  his  undertakings, 
the  log  house  was  replaced  by  a frame  residence,  that  is  still  standing.  The 
family  bore  all  the  hardships  and  privations  of  pioneer  life,  but  in  time  overcame 
all  obstacles  and  were  enabled  to  enjoy  the  fruits  of  persistent  and  honorable 
labor.  Mr.  Yohnk  continued  a resident  of  this  county  until  called  to  his  final 
rest,  on  the  first  of  December,  1907.  The  mother  still  survives  and  makes  her 
home  with  her  daughter  in  Superior,  Wisconsin.  Mr.  Yohnk  held  membership 
in  the  Lutheran  church.  He  gave  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party 
and  held  many  township  offices,  the  duties  of  which  he  discharged  with  credit 
to  himself  and  satisfaction  to  his  constituents.  He  was  one  of  the  earliest  settlers 
of  the  county  and  lived  to  see  remarkable  changes  as  the  years  passed  on  and 
when  death  called  him,  he  left  behind  the  memory  of  an  active  and  well  spent 
life. 

L.  H.  Yohnk  was  the  elder  of  two  children,  his  sister  being  Mrs.  John  Holland, 
of  Superior,  Wisconsin.  He  was  but  seven  years  of  age  when  the  family  came 
to  the  United  States,  and  his  experiences  were  those  of  the  boy  who  is  reared 
upon  the  frontier  amid  surroundings  that  entail  all  of  the  hardships  of  pioneer 
life. 

He  roamed  through  the  woods  and  learned,  appreciated  and  enjoyed  nature. 
At  an  early  age  he  went  to  work  in  the  pineries  and  there  continued  until  ten 


426 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


or  twelve  years  ago,  since  which  time  he  has  devoted  his  entire  attention  to 
farming.  He  c&me  into  possession  of  a part  of  the  old  homestead  and  has  added 
to  his  holdings  until  he  now  has  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  rich  and  pro- 
ductive land,  which  responds  readily  to  the  care  and  labor  he  bestows  upon  it. 
There  are  good  improvements  upon  his  place,  including  a comfortable  frame 
residence  and  substantial  outbuildings  for  grain  and  stock.  In  1912  he  erected 
one  of  the  largest  barns  in  the  township,  its  dimensions  being  thirty-six  by  eighty 
feet.  He  has  a herd  of  high-grade  Holstein  cattle,  with  a full-blooded  bull  at 
the  head  of  the  herd.  He  successfully  carries  on  dairying  in  connection  with 
general  farming  and  is  a man  of  notable  energy  and  business  foresight,  carefully 
managing  his  affairs  so  as  to  secure  gratifying  returns. 

Mr.  Yohnk  was  married  in  this  city  to  Miss  Edith  Gardner,  who  was  born  in 
the  state  of  New  York  and  is  a daughter  of  William  Gardner.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Yohnk  now  have  five  children:  Lucius;  Rollin ; Frank;  Elmer  and  Anna,  all 
yet  at  home.  Mr.  Yohnk  has  always  taken  a deep  and  helpful  interest  in  public 
affairs.  For  twenty  years  he  was  chairman  of  the  board  of  supervisors  for  his 
township  and  for  fifteen  years  was  assessor.  For  twenty  years  he  has  filled  the 
position  of  school  clerk  and  is  still  the  incumbent  of  that  office.  The  record 
which  he  has  made  as  a business  man  and  citizen  is  a creditable  one  and  during 
the  forty-five  years  of  his  residence  in  Chippewa  county  he  has  gained  many 
friends,  chief  among  them  being  those  who  have  known  him  from  boyhood,  a 
fact  which  indicates  that  his  has  been  an  active,  useful  and  well  spent  life. 


GEORGE  EDSON  DEE. 


The  Chippewa  Herald,  with  a circulation  list  of  over  two  thousand  subscribers, 
is  today  the  leading  newspaper  of  Chippewa  county  and  acknowledged  to  be  the 
most  successful  four-page  daily  in  the  northwest.  This  result  has  been  brought 
about  by  a man  of  strong  personality,  comprehensive  education  and  restless  energy 
— George  E.  Dee.  When  he  took  charge  of  the  paper  about  fifteen  years  ago, 
the  Chippewa  Herald  was  a struggling  country  weekly  with  three  hundred  and 
seventy-five  subscribers,  and  it  is  due  to  his  incessant  work  that  it  has  come  to 
be  recognized  as  one  of  the  most  aggressive  and  powerful  organs  among  the 
country  press  of  the  state.  It  largely  reflects  the  opinions  of  its  editor,  who  never 
takes  an  equivocal  view  of  any  question  but  is  as  outspoken  in  his  editorial  columns 
and  in  his  recommendation  of  good  or  condemnation  of  bad  as  he  is  in  his  private 
life.  It  is  the  mouthpiece  of  the  people,  is  conducted  in  the  interests  of  the  people 
and  has  therefore  brought  large  benefits  to  those  whom  it  sincerely  represents. 
Mr.  Dee  has  always  stood  for  progress  and  growth  and  his  paper  has  strongly 
reflected  these  views  and  has  been  the  means  of  bringing  about  much  needed 
improvement  in  the  city  and  county.  Politically  it  is  a clean  sheet — republican, 
honest  and  unbiased  in  its  opinions  and  therefore  independent,  and  this  independ- 
ence of  opinion  can  be  the  more  emphasized  as  its  owner  and  editor  has  never 
sought  public  office  and  is  independent  of  politics  and  politicians  except  for  the 
honest  convictions  which  decide  him  in  favor  of  republican  ideals  and  principles. 


GEORGE  E.  DEE 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


429 


George  Edson  Dee  was  born  in  Mulberry  Grove,  Illinois,  November  7,  1873, 
a son  of  Charles  E.  and  Sarah  B.  Dee.  He  attended  the  graded  schools  at  Mul- 
berry Grove  and  high  school  at  Greenville,  Illinois,  remaining  in  the  latter  institu- 
tion one  year  and  continuing  his  preparatory  course  for  two  years  at  McKendree 
College  at  Lebanon,  Illinois.  His  collegiate  education  consisted  of  four  years  in 
De  Pauw  University  of  Greencastle,  Indiana,  where  he  took  philosophical  and 
literary  courses,  graduating  in  the  class  of  1896.  During  that  time  he  also  did 
three  years’  practical  work  along  journalistic  lines.  He  then  became  principal 
of  the  Redkey  (Ind.)  high  school,  remaining  in  that  position  for  two  years,  and 
then  served  one  year  as  superintendent  of  the  Redkey  public  schools,  resigning 
from  that  position  on  May  26,  1898,  in  order  to  enter  upon  newspaper  work  as 
his  chosen  profession.  Mr.  Dee  had  always  had  a particular  weakness  for  jour- 
nalism and  he  has  ever  felt  impelled  to  devote  his  sole  labors  toward  that  important 
branch  of  our  public  life. 

For  over  a year  he  carefully  weighed  the  advantages  and  disadvantages  of 
various  locations,  but  upon  finding  that  the  Chippewa  Herald  was  for  sale,  decided 
that  the  opportunity  he  sought  had  come  to  hand.  Coming  to  Chippewa  Falls, 
June  27,  1898,  he  purchased  the  Herald  on  July  1,  1898,  and  published  its  initial 
issue  on  July  5th.  He  has  ever  since  devoted  his  entire  attention  and  unflagging 
energy  to  the  upbuilding  of  his  paper  and  for  fifteen  and  a half  years  has  been 
its  editor  and  business  manager.  Not  only  does  he  consider  the  Herald  as  a dis- 
seminator of  news,  but  he  full  well  recognizes  that  a newspaper  is  a powerful 
medium  for  educating  the  people  as  to  all  important  public  issues.  Local  projects 
and  improvements  are  discussed  in  the  columns  of  the  Herald,  policies  of  growth 
and  progress  are  advocated  and  new  movements  initiated  which  may  benefit  the 
industrial  or  agricultural  life  of  the  region.  More  than  that,  the  Herald  is  an 
organ  of  uplift,  setting  forth  intellectual  and  moral  ideals  before  its  readers 
which  are  of  direct  benefit  to  all  those  who  want  to  profit  by  inspirited  and 
inspiring  articles  giving  expression  to  what  is  good  and  noble  in  human  nature. 
Naturally  the  Herald  is  largely  devoted  to  local  affairs  and  gives  a full  account 
of  all  the  happenings  of  Chippewa  county,  but  it  also  boasts  of  a comprehensive 
service  furnishing  the  news  of  the  nation  and  the  world.  In  state  and  national 
politics  it  fairly  treats  the  achievements  and  shortcomings  of  our  statesmen  irre- 
spective of  party,  giving  praise  where  praise  is  due  and  condemning  where  admo- 
nition is  in  place.  The  Chippewa  Herald  (daily)  and  Weekly  Herald  are  published 
under  the  name  of  the  Herald  Printing  Company,  Inc.,  of  which  company  Mr. 
Dee  is  the  owner.  The  firm  also  engages  to  a considerable  extent  in  job  printing 
and  their  work  enjoys  a reputation  for  good  taste  and  artistic  design,  while  their 
prices  are  very  reasonable.  The  editorial  columns  Mr.  Dee  ever  employs  for 
setting  forth  concisely  his  views  upon  all  questions  which  affect  the  local  public, 
and  they  have  become  a powerful  instrument  for  good  in  the  community.  It  is 
therefore  but  natural  that  the  paper  has  been  a continuous  success.  Its  adver- 
tising patronage  has  increased  as  its  subscription  list  has  mounted  from  three 
hundred  and  seventy-five  to  over  two  thousand,  and  it  is  therefore  considered  by 
local  merchants  the  foremost  and  best  paying  medium  for  advertising  or  publicity. 
Fearless,  aggressive  and  enterprising  as  its  owner  is  the  Herald,  and  it  may  be 
said  that  both  are  enthusiastic  champions  of  the  community  and  loyal  to  the 
core  in  their  American  patriotism.  The  paper  strongly  reflects  the  individuality 

Vo!  U— 2 1 


430 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


of  its  editor  and  makes  him  stand  out  as  an  active  and  practical  promoter  of 
worthy  public  enterprises.  In  that  connection  just  one  fact  may  be  mentioned. 
In  1912  he  raised  by  the  first  popular  subscription  ever  here  undertaken  money 
for  improving  the  public  highways  of  the  county  and  raised  a similar  fund  in 
1913.  Pie  and  his  paper  have  grown  so  closely  together  that  both  are  considered 
by  the  general  public  as  one  individuality  and  are  popular,  highly  esteemed  and 
always  respected  in  their  opinions,  for  it  has  become  generally  recognized  that 
these  opinions  have  been  dictated  by  a policy  of  absolute  honesty. 

Mr.  Dee  was  united  in  marriage  at  Anderson,  Indiana,  on  June  4,  1898,  to 
Miss  Charlotte  Turner,  daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Frank  L.  Turner.  There  are 
four  daughters  born  of  this  union,  the  Misses  Elinor,  Nilah,  Lois  and  Dorris 
Dee.  Mr.  Dee  is  a republican  but  has  never  sought  office.  Pie  feels  more  free 
to  express  his  opinion  if  unshackled  and  unbounden  to  anyone  for  political  favors. 
Moreover,  his  business  is  remunerative,  as  it  is  conducted  in  a business  way  and 
the  emoluments  of  public  positions  have  no  attraction  for  him. 


I.  O.  SNYDER. 

For  almost  twenty  years  J.  O.  Snyder  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  and  during 
that  time  has  been  one  of  the  greatest  individual  forces  in  promoting  the  growth 
of  the  section.  He  started  the  first  creamery  in  Cook  Valley,  thus  introducing 
into  the  county  cattle-raising  on  a large  scale,  and  his  farming  interests  have 
been  extensive  and  important,  his  work  along  this  line  being  of  substantial  value 
to  the  community  at  large.  He  was  born  in  Walworth  county,  this  state,  in  1858, 
and  is  a son  of  William  Snyder,  a native  of  New  York  state,  who  came  to  Wis- 
consin about  the  year  1848  and  followed  farming  here  for  many  years.  He  died 
in  Bloomer  when  he  was  past  the  age  of  eighty-five,  and  his  wife,  who  was  in 
her  maidenhood  Miss  Sybil  Barber,  passed  away  at  the  age  of  eighty-seven. 
They  were  the  parents  of  six  children,  four  of  whom  are  still  living. 

J.  O.  Snyder  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Walworth  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  worked  as  a monthly  laborer  for  one  year.  He 
then  turned  his  attention  to  butter  and  cheese  making  and  he  followed  this  line 
of  occupation  in  the  southern  part  of  Wisconsin  for  twelve  years  thereafter.  At 
the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and  turned  his  attention  to 
farming,  gradually  accumulating  three  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  and  devel- 
oping one  of  the  finest  agricultural  properties  in  this  locality.  He  has  since  sold 
a portion  of  his  holdings  but  retains  eighty  acres,  which  are  in  charge  of  his  son, 
who  engages  in  general  farming  upon  the  property.  Mr.  Snyder  has  never 
abandoned  his  interest  in  the  creamery  business  and  it  was  he  who  established 
the  first  creamery  in  Cook  Valley,  thus  giving  an  impetus  to  the  advancement  of 
the  cattle-raising  industry  in  this  section  of  the  state.  He  is  now  interested  in 
the  Bloomer  Cooperative  Creamery  and  his  judgment  is  considered  sound  and 
reliable  in  business  circles. 

Mr.  Snyder  married  Miss  Carrie  Salisbury  and  they  have  two  children : Bert 
L.,  who  operates  his  father’s  farm;  and  Blanche  E.,  who  married  John  L.  Eder 
and  who  has  two  children,  Izetta  and  Caroline.  Mr.  Snyder  is  a republican  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


433 


eminent  land  on  section  34,  Washington  township,  Rusk  county,  which  was  then 
a part  of  Chippewa  county.  The  property  was  entirely  covered  with  timber 
and  no  improvements  had  been  made  thereon.  When  the  land  had  been  cleared 
he  began  its  cultivation  and  has  made  the  place  his  home  to  the  present  time, 
having  erected  substantial  and  commodious  buildings  and  otherwise  improved 
the  property.  As  his  financial  resources  increased,  owing  to  his  untiring  industry 
and  capable  management,  he  extended  the  boundaries  of  his  farm  by  an  addi- 
tional purchase  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres,  so  that  the  place  now  embraces 
a quarter  section.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  annually  harvests  good 
crops  which  find  a ready  sale  on  the  market. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Gourdoux  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Josephine 
Dallas,  a native  of  this  county,  by  whom  he  ha.s  nine  children,  as  follows : Anna, 
who  is  the  wife  of  Fred  W.  Hennekens;  Leonard;  Adeline,  who  gave  her  hand  in 
marriage  to  Oscar  McCoy;  Salestine,  a resident  of  Portland,  Oregon;  Eulalia, 
who  is  a Catholic  sister  of  St.  Paul;  Raoul,  at  home;  Agnes,  a music  teacher; 
Claude ; and  Christopher. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Gourdoux  was  formerly  a republican  but  now 
supports  the  socialist  party.  He  has  held  various  township  offices,  acting  as 
treasurer  for  a period  of  six  years  and  also  in  the  capacity  of  assessor  and  super- 
visor. The  duties  which  have  devolved  upon  him  as  a public  official  have  ever 
been  faithfully  and  promptly  discharged  and  his  record  has  been  both  creditable 
and  commendable.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  Catholic  church,  of  which 
his  wife  and  children  are  also  devout  communicants.  He  is  well  known  in  the 
community,  and  a genial  manner  and  cordial  disposition  have  gained  for  him 
many  friends. 


CLARENCE  E.  BREED. 

There  is  much  that  is  commendable  in  the  life  of  Clarence  E.  Breed,  for  he  has 
made  his  own  way  in  the  world  since  nine  years  of  age  and  through  his  own 
efforts  has  become  a prosperous  builder  and  contractor  in  Holcombe,  Chippewa 
county.  Although  obstacles  had  to  be  overcome  and  adverse  conditions  had  to 
be  conquered,  Mr.  Breed  has  attained  to  a most  substantial  position  in  his  com- 
munity, enjoying  in  great  measure  the  high  regard  and  confidence  of  all  who 
know  him. 

Clarence  E.  Breed  was  born  in  Neillsville,  Wisconsin,  December  13,  1875, 
a son  of  Emery  and  Martha  (Waterman)  Breed,  natives  of  this  state.  The 
father  was  a carpenter  by  trade,  which  occupation  he  followed  until  his  death, 
which  occurred  about  two  years  ago  at  the  age  of  sixty-four  years.  The  mother 
now  lives  at  Waukegan,  Illinois.  Of  their  four  children  two  died  in  childhood, 
while  Chester,  a sailor  on  Lake  Michigan,  passed  away  about  four  years  ago 
at  the  age  of  twenty-one. 

Clarence  E.  Breed,  the  other  member  of  the  family,  attended  common  school 
for  a short  period,  beginning  to  make  his  own  way  in  the  world  at  the  age  of 
nine  years.  He  was  for  nine  years  field  manager  for  the  J.  L.  Gates  Land 
Company,  buying  and  selling  timber  and  timber  lands,  making  estimates  for  the 


434 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


firm  and  doing  similar  work.  For  the  past  seven  years  he  has  made  his  home  in 
Holcombe,  where  he  engaged  in  carpentering  and  concrete  construction  work, 
and  is  now  doing  general  contracting,  his  business  connections  extending  over 
the  entire  state.  Mr.  Breed  has  proved  himself  an  able  and  shrewd  business  man 
and  success  has  attended  his  efforts  as  the  years  have  passed. 

Mr.  Breed  was  married  to  Miss  Edna  Catherine  Anderson,  a native  of  Ward 
county,  Wisconsin,  and  a daughter  of  John  and  Elizabeth  (Blake)  Anderson, 
both  of  whom  are  still  living.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Breed  have  six  children:  Ruth, 

Selda,  Charles,  Clarence,  Harry  and  Arlene.  Although  Mr.  Breed  is  public- 
spirited  and  takes  an  interest  in  all  matters  of  public  moment,  he  has  never  seen 
fit  to  ally  himself  with  the  political  life  of  his  locality.  He  is  first  and  foremost 
a business  man  and  prefers  to  fulfill  his  duties  of  citizenship  in  a private  capacity. 


JOHN  B.  KRAMSCHUSTER. 

John  B.  Kramschuster,  a well  known  business  man  of  Bloomer  where  he  is 
treasurer  and  manager  of  the  Bloomer  Produce  Company,  and  a prosperous 
farmer  of  Bloomer  township  where  he  owns  and  operates  a fine  property  of  two 
hundred  and  twenty-six  acres,  was  born  in  Jefferson  county,  Wisconsin,  in  1855. 
He  is  a son  of  John  and  Kunigundis  (Gloss)  Kramschuster,  natives  of  Ger- 
many where  their  marriage  occurred.  They  came  to  the  United  States  in  1853 
and  after  spending  a short  time  in  Chicago  moved  to  Jefferson  county  where 
they  were  among  the  pioneer  settlers.  The  father  was  a farmer  during  all  of 
his  active  life,  but  for  the  past  eleven  years  has  lived  in  retirement  in  Bloomer. 
He  is  eighty-six  years  of  age  and  his  wife  is  eighty-four.  They  celebrated  their 
sixtieth  wedding  anniversary  June  17,  1913.  Nine  children  were  born  to  their 
union,  three  of  whom  still  survive:  John  B.,  of  this  review;  Barney,  engaged 

in  farming;  and  Mrs.  Pfeifer,  of  Chippewa  Falls. 

John  B.  Kramschuster  acquired  his  education  in  the  Watertown  public  schools 
and  afterward  followed  logging  in  the  woods  and  on  the  rivers  for  some  time, 
abandoning  this  occupation  finally  and  turning  his  attention  to  farming.  He 
has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  since  1869  and  has  farmed  on  various  properties, 
although  for  the  past  twenty-seven  or  eight  years  he  has  lived  upon  his  present 
farm.  This  comprises  two  hundred  and  twenty-six  acres  lying  in  Bloomer  town- 
ship and  upon  it  Mr.  Kramschuster  engages  in  general  farming,  stock-raising 
and  dairying.  He  has  made  excellent  improvements,  erecting  substantial  barns 
and  outbuildings  and  installing  labor-saving  machinery.  He  devotes  a great  deal 
of  time  to  his  farming  operations  but  is  also  active  in  business  circles  of  Bloomer 
where  his  ability  is  recognized  and  respected.  In  May,  1902,  he  was  one  of  the 
incorporators  of  the  Bloomer  Produce  Company  and  has  since  been  a member 
of  the  board  of  directors.  In  1909  he  was  elected  treasurer  and  manager  and 
again  in  1911  and  these  positions  he  still  holds,  discharging  his  duties  in  an  able 
and  conscientious  way.  Henry  Leveis,  Sr.,  is  president  of  the  concern  and 
Andrew  Hansen  of  Chippewa  Falls  is  vice  president.  The  company  handles  all 
kinds  of  farm  produce,  such  as  hay,  grain,  potatoes,  fertilizer,  etc.,  and  maintains 
a large  warehouse  near  the  Omaha  tracks.  It  controls  a large  and  growing 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


435 


patronage  and  the  enterprise  is  one  of  the  most  important  of  its  kind  in  this 
part  of  the  county. 

Mr.  Kramschuster  married  Miss  Katie  Boehm  and  they  became  the  parents 
of  fourteen  children  : Peter,  who  has  passed  away  ; John  ; Joseph  ; Anthony ; Peter, 
the  second  of  the  name ; Mary ; Annie  ; Elizabeth  ; Margaret ; Leo ; Robert ; Lena  ; 
Monica,  deceased ; and  George. 

Mr.  Kramschuster  holds  membership  in  the  Roman  Catholic  church  and  is 
identified  with  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin.  He  is  a democrat  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  has  held  a number  of  public  offices,  having  been  supervisor, 
clerk  and  assessor  of  Bloomer  township.  In  both  official  and  business  circles 
he  is  highly  esteemed  and  respected  as  a man  thoroughly  upright  and  honorable 
in  whatever  relation  of  life  he  is  found. 


MATH  MULLEN. 

Math  Mullen,  living  three  and  a half  miles  southeast  of  Bloomer,  on  a farm 
of  two  hundred  and  eighty  acres,  was  born  in  Norway  in  1S69  and  is  a son  of 
Samuel  and  Llilda  Johanna  Mullen,  who  are  still  residents  of  that  country.  They 
became  the  parents  of  ten  children. 

Math  Mullen  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Norway  and 
after  laying  aside  his  books  remained  at  home  until  he  was  twenty-one  years 
of  age.  He  then  emigrated  to  America  and,  coming  to  Chippewa  county,  worked 
at  various  occupations,  principally  farming  and  lumbering,  until  1901,  when 
he  bought  two  hundred  and  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Tilden  township.  Upon  this 
property  he  has  since  resided  and  he  has  greatly  improved  it  during  the  inter- 
vening years,  erecting  a comfortable  barn,  a good  silo  and  other  farm  buildings. 
He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  under  his  able  management 
his  has  become  one  of  the  most  productive  and  valuable  properties  in  this  section 
of  the  county. 

Mr.  Mullen  married  Miss  Anna  Wilson,  who  was  born  in  Norway,  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  seven  children,  Herman,  Clara,  Inga,  Selma.  Chris- 
tina, Alvin  and  Edward.  Mr.  Mullen  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran 
church  and  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  Lie  is  a man  whose  energy  and 
industry  have  formed  the  basis  of  his  success  and,  being  of  good  character  and 
interested  in  the  general  welfare  of  the  township,  he  is  numbered  among  its  most 
substantial  and  desirable  citizens. 


BERT  KENNEDY. 

Bert  Kennedy,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  an  eighty-acre 
tract  of  land  in  Bloomer  township,  is  a native  son  of  Chippewa  county,  born  on 
the  old  Kennedy  homestead  in  1878.  His  father,  Charles  W.  Kennedy,  was  a 
native  of  Canada  and  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  a young  man, 
locating  in  Chippewa  county,  three  quarters  of  a mile  south  of  the  homestead 


436 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


belonging  to  the  subject  of  this  review.  He  followed  general  farming  during 
the  remainder  of  bis  active  life,  dying  upon  his  holdings  at  the  age  of  fifty-two. 
He  married  Miss  Sarah  Wright,  also  a native  of  Canada,  and  eight  children 
were  born  to  their  union,  as  follows:  Mrs.  Della  Amenson ; Bert,  of  this  review; 
Duncan  and  Elizabeth,  who  have  passed  away;  Charles;  Fannie;  Walter;  and 
Wright. 

Bert  Kennedy  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  he  laid  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  an  occupation 
in  which  he  had  been  reared.  He  operated  the  homestead  for  some  time  and  then 
moved  to  his  present  farm,  whereon  he  has  since  carried  forward  the  work  of 
improvement  and  development.  He  has  built  an  excellent  barn  and  other  good 
farm  buildings  and  has  installed  labor-saving  machinery  to  facilitate  the  work 
of  the  fields.  Upon  this  fine  property  he  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairy- 
ing and  his  well  directed  labors  have  been  rewarded  by  a gratifying  degree  of 
success. 

Mr.  Kennedy  married  Miss  Edith  Bassett,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  six  children,  Hazel,  Blanche,  Mildred,  Gladys,  Lee  and  Earl.  Mr.  Kennedy 
is  a republican  in  bis  political  beliefs  and  is  interested  in  the  growth  and  progi'ess 
of  the  community,  cooperating  heartily  in  measures  and  projects  for  the  general 
advancement  and  development.  He  is  well  known  in  social  and  agricultural 
circles,  for  he  has  attained  a gratifying  degree  of  success  and  is  a native  son  of 
whom  Chippewa  county  has  every  reason  to  be  proud. 


GEORGE  BESTRUP. 

George  Bestrup,  an  industrious  and  enterprising  agriculturist  of  Cleveland 
township,  is  the  owner  of  a farm  comprising  eighty  acres  on  section  28,  township 
31,  range  7.  His  birth  occurred  in  Denmark  on  the  23d  of  September,  1861,  his 
parents  being  Peter  and  Kate  Bestrup,  the  former  still  a resident  of  that  country 
and  the  latter  deceased.  He  attended  the  common  schools  in  the  acquirement 
of  an  education  and  remained  in  the  land  of  his  nativity  until  twenty-one  years 
of  age.  In  1882,  wishing  to  test  the  truth  of  the  many  favorable  reports  which 
had  reached  him  concerning  the  opportunities  and  advantages  of  the  new  world, 
he  set  sail  for  the  LTnited  States.  Landing  on  American  shores  with  but  little 
capital,  he  was  obliged  to  seek  employment  and  for  three  years  worked  in  a 
factory  at  Gowanda,  New  York,  as  a grinder  of  axes.  Subsequently  he  engaged 
in  farming  near  Bay  City,  Michigan,  and  later  was  employed  in  cement  works 
at  Utica,  Illinois.  In  1899,  >n  association  with  his  brother,  he  purchased  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  wild  land  in  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  the  property 
being  on  section  28,  township  31,  range  7.  No  road  led  to  the  place  and  no 
improvements  had  been  made  thereon.  The  brother  of  our  subject  eventually 
sold  his  share  in  the  property  and  removed  to  Canada,  but  George  Bestrup 
remained  on  the  farm  and  still  owns  his  eighty-acre  tract,  about  forty  acres  of 
which  are  cleared  and  under  cultivation.  He  erected  a frame  residence,  barn  and 
outbuildings  and  now  has  a well  improved  and  productive  farm  which  annually 
returns  to  him  a gratifying  income. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


437 


In  Chippewa  county,  Mr.  Bestrup  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Agnes 
Hogan,  a native  of  Canada,  who  passed  away  on  the  24th  of  April,  1911.  He 
is  a democrat  in  his  political  views  but  casts  an  independent  ballot  at  local  elec- 
tions, supporting  the  candidates  and  measures  that  he  believes  will  further  the 
best  interests  of  the  people.  He  is  now  serving  for  the  third  year  as  chairman 
of  the  board  of  supervisors  in  Cleveland  township.  In  religious  belief  he  is 
a Lutheran,  having  been  reared  in  the  faith  of  that  church.  Coming  to  the  new 
world  in  early  manhood,  he  eagerly  availed  himself  of  the  opportunities  here 
afforded  and  by  dint  of  untiring  industry  and  energy  has  worked  his  way  steadily 
upward  until  he  is  now  widely  recognized  as  one  of  the  substantial  and  esteemed 
citizens  of  his  community. 


WILLIAM  SCHROEDER. 

William  Schroeder,  a resident  of  Chippewa  county  for  the  past  twenty-eight 
years,  devotes  his  attention  to  mixed  farming  and  is  the  owner  of  a tract  of 
land  comprising  one  hundred  and  forty  acres  on  section  25,  Sigel  township.  He 
was  born  in  Germany,  in  1871,  a son  of  Fred  and  Christina  (Waechter) 
Schroeder,  whom  he  accompanied  on  their  emigration  to  the  new  world  in  1885. 
Both  have  passed  away  and  lie  buried  at  Til  den,  Wisconsin. 

William  Schroeder,  who  was  a youth  of  fourteen  when  he  came  to  the  United 
States  with  his  parents,  continued  his  education  in  Sigel  township,  this  county, 
for  one  year.  After  putting  aside  his  text-books  he  assisted  his  father  in  the 
operation  of  the  home  farm  for  six  years,  becoming  thoroughly  familiar  with 
the  best  methods  of  tilling  the  soil  and  caring  for  the  crops.  When  he  had 
attained  his  majority  he  acquired  a tract  of  one  hundred  and  forty  acres  on 
section  25,  Sigel  township,  and  has  remained  thereon  continuously  since,  giving 
his  time  and  energies  to  mixed  farming  and  keeping  about  six  horses,  twenty 
cattle  and  eight  hogs.  The  residence  and  other  buildings  on  the  place  have 
been  erected  by  him  and  stand  as  monuments  to  his  enterprise,  thrift  and  industry. 
He  enjoys  a gratifying  annual  income  and  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  substantial 
and  representative  citizens  of  his  community. 

In  his  political  views  Mr.  Schroeder  is  a republican,  loyally  supporting  the  men 
and  measures  of  that  party  at  the  polls.  His  religious  faith  is  indicated  by  his 
membership  in  the  Lutheran  church.  He  is  well  known  in  the  locality  and  a genial 
manner  and  cordial  disposition  have  gained  for  him  many  friends. 


HENRY  HENNEMANN. 

Henry  Hennemann,  who  follows  farming  in  Auburn  township,  has  for  the 
past  sixteen  years  been  connected  with  agricultural  interests  of  this  locality  and 
is  today  one  of  the  prosperous  farmers  of  Chippewa  county,  owning  and  operat- 
ing two  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  fine  land  seven  miles  west  of  Bloomer.  He 
was  born  near  Chippewa  Falls  in  1858  and  is  a son  of  John  IT.  Hennemann,  a 


4.38 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1854,  locating  in  Ohio. 
One  year  afterward  he  moved  to  Chippewa  Falls  and  resided  for  many  years 
west  of  Tilden  Mill.  His  death  occurred  near  Bloomer,  in  the  eighty-third  year 
of  his  age.  He  and  his  wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Anna  Plotuer, 
became  the  parents  of  twelve  children. 

Henry  Hennemann  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  began  working  in  the  lumber  woods, 
spending  seventeen  winters  at  this  occupation.  He  afterward  took  up  his  resi- 
dence in  the  vicinity  of  Chippewa  Falls  and  in  1897  purchased  two  hundred  and 
forty  acres  in  Auburn  township.  Since  he  moved  upon  his  property  he  has 
erected  all  of  the  buildings  and  made  other  substantial  improvements.  He  is 
meeting  with  more  than  ordinary  success  in  his  farming  and  dairy  operations. 

Mr.  Hennemann  married  Miss  Sarah  Helwig  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  five  children,  Arthur,  Ella,  Raymond,  Dora  and  Emmons,  all  of  whom 
live  at  home.  Mr.  Hennemann  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  is  connected 
fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  holds  membership  in  the 
Evangelical  church.  His  excellent  qualities  of  character  and  his  enterprising 
spirit  have  gained  him  high  standing  as  a citizen  of  the  community  and  his 
ability  and  energy  have  made  him  well  known  in  business  circles. 


EDWARD  G.  AND  BENJAMIN  J.  WALTER. 

Edward  G.  and  Benjamin  J.  Walter  constitute  the  firm  of  Walter  Brothers, 
engaged  in  general  agricultural  pursuits  on  section  13,  Tilden  township.  They 
not  only  are  connected  in  their  business  affairs  but  also  occupy  the  same  residence 
and  have  been  closely  connected  in  all  their  interests  throughout  their  entire 
lives.  In  addition  to  owning  and  improving  a farm  of  five  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  in  Tilden  and  Eagle  Point  townships,  they  are  likewise  the  owners  of  a 
flour  mill.  They  have  been  residents  of  Chippewa  county  since  1885.  The  elder 
brother,  Edward  G.  Walter,  was  born  in  Mazomanie,  Dane  county,  Wisconsin, 
October  12,  1881,  and  the  younger  on  the  12th  of  August,  1883.  Their  parents 
were  George  and  Fannie  (Badrutt)  Walter.  The  father  became  a contractor 
and  afterward  turned  his  attention  to  farming  and  to  the  manufacture  of  flour 
and  feed.  He  was  not  only  active  in  business  circles  of  the  county,  but  was  also 
prominent  in  public  affairs  and  was  called  to  the  office  of  county  treasurer  two 
terms.  He  was  popular  with  his  many  friends,  was  a devoted  husband  and 
father  and  a public-spirited  citizen,  whose  aid  could  be  counted  upon  to  further 
any  movement  for  the  general  good.  He  died  July  12,  1903,  at  the  age  of 
forty-seven  years  and  was  laid  to  rest  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  His  wife 
still  survives,  together  with  their  four  children,  the  daughters  being:  Anna 
M.,  now  the  wife  of  Dr.  H.  F.  Henneman,  of  Sauk  Centre,  Minnesota;  and 
Amelie  A.,  who  is  private  secretary  to  the  secretary  of  the  state  board  of 
health.  A son,  Emil  F.  Walter,  who  was  a bright  and  loving  boy,  died  July 
9,  1903,  at  the  age  of  fourteen  years  and  was  laid  to  rest  in  the  Forest  Hill 
cemetery.  The  farm  which  is  now  being  cultivated  by  the  brothers  was  originally 
the  property  of  the  father,  who  made  splendid  improvements  upon  it,  built  the 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


439 


mill  and  barn  and  remodeled  the  residence.  In  fact  he  made  the  place  one  of  the 
model  farm  properties  of  the  county.  The  family  is  of  German  lineage  and  many 
of  the  sterling  characteristics  of  the  German  people  are  found  in  the  latter 
generations. 

The  father  removed  with  the  family  to  Chippewa  county  when  the  sons  were 
but  little  lads  and  they  pursued  their  education  as  pupils  in  the  district  schools 
and  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  Falls.  Edward  G.  Walter  was  sixteen  years 
of  age  when  he  left  school.  Soon  afterward  he  took  up  the  study  of  telegraphy 
and  afterward  acted  as  telegraph  operator  in  various  places  for  the  Chicago,  St. 
Paul,  Minneapolis  & Omaha  Railroad  Company,  spending  four  years  in  that 
way.  On  the  expiration  of  that  period  he  returned  home  and  took  charge  of 
the  farm.  While  he  raises  good  crops,  he  has  also  made  a study  of  breeding, 
raising  and  handling  pure-bred  Belgian  and  Percheron  horses  and  high-grade 
cattle.  He  is  following  in  the  footsteps  of  his  father  and  through  the  employ- 
ment of  progressive,  modern-day  methods  is  meeting  with  substantial  success. 
Aside  from  his  farming  interests  he  is  engaged  in  the  manufacture  of  flour  and 
is  the  president  of  the  Tilden  Creamery  Company  and  chairman  of  the  town  of 
Tilden. 

On  the  12th  of  August,  1909,  in  Chippewa  Falls,  Mr.  Walter  was  married 
to  Miss  Alice  J.  Hennemann,  a daughter  of  J.  W.  and  Catherine  Hennemann,  who 
were  pioneer  farming  people  of  this  county.  The  father  was  also  a minister  of 
the  Methodist  Episcopal  church  and  his  life  was  a potent  element  for  good  in 
the  moral  development  of  the  community.  He  died  in  1908  and  was  laid  to 
rest  in  the  Forest  Hill  cemetery.  His  widow  survives  and  yet  makes  her  home 
in  Chippewa  Falls.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Edward  G.  Walter  now  have  two  children,  Earl 
and  Gladys. 

Benjamin  J.  Walter  attended  school  to  the  age  of  fourteen  years  and  then 
began  assisting  his  father,  being  thus  employed  until  he  became  a partner  of  his 
brother  in  the  conduct  of  the  old  homestead  farm  of  five  hundred  and  sixty 
acres,  situated  in  Tilden  and  Eagle  Point  townships.  Both  brothers  are  enter- 
prising, progressive  men  who  did  not  fear  hard  labor  nor  that  close  attention  to 
details  so  necessary  to  success.  They  are  both  republicans  in  their  political  views 
and  hold  membership  in  the  German  Methodist  Episcopal  church  and  sterling 
worth  commands  for  them  the  confidence,  good-will  and  high  regard  of  all  with 
whom  they  have  been  associated  Their  position  in  both  business  and  social 
circles  is  an  enviable  one  and  they  are  classed  with  the  popular  residents  of  Tilden 
township. 


ERNEST  SCHEIDECKER. 

For  a number  of  years  general  farming  and  dairying  have  commanded  the 
attention  of  Ernest  Scheidecker,  who  lives  upon  a farm  of  eighty  acres  four 
miles  west  of  Bloomer,  in  Auburn  township,  where  he  bears  the  reputation  of 
being  an  enterprising  and  up-to-date  citizen  as  well  as  a progressive  and  repre- 
sentative agriculturist.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1867  and  is  a son  of  Fred 


440 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Scheidecker,  who  came  to  the  United  States  in  1870,  settling  in  Wisconsin.  Ernest 
Scheidecker  was  at  that  time  three  and  a half  years  of  age  and  he  grew  to 
manhood  in  this  state,  acquiring  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  engaged  in  farm  labor  in  the  employ 
of  others  for  some  time  and  finally  purchased  a farm  near  Bloomer,  which  he 
operated  for  several  years.  This  he  sold  in  1903  and  purchased  property  four 
miles  west  of  the  town,  upon  which  he  has  since  resided.  He  engages  in  general 
farming  and  dairying  and  has  greatly  improved  his  property,  which  is  today  pro- 
ductive and  valuable.  He  has  built  a new  barn  upon  it  and  has  made  other 
substantial  improvements. 

Mr.  Scheidecker  married  Miss  Minnie  Fehr,  and  they  have  five  children,  Paul, 
Herman,  Carl,  Walter  and  Annie.  Mr.  Scheidecker  is  a republican  in  his  poli- 
tical beliefs  and  interested  in  the  progress  and  growth  of  the  township.  The 
success  which  has  attended  his  labors  well  entitles  him  to  recognition  among  the 
prosperous,  enterprising  and  representative  citizens  of  the  community  and  his 
many  sterling  traits  of  character  have  won  him  the  warm  friendship  and  regard 
of  those  with  whom  he  has  come  in  contact. 


ANTON  NECITVATAL. 

Good  farm  buildings  in  the  midst  of  a well  cultivated  tract  of  land  attest  the 
enterprising  spirit  and  progressive  methods  of  Anton  Nechvatal,  who  was  born 
in  Bohemia  on  the  20th  of  December,  1881.  His  father,  Joseph  Nechvatal,  died 
when  the  son  was  but  six  months  old  and  he  was  brought  to  the  United  States 
when  a little  lad  of  three  summers.  His  mother  afterward  married  again,  becom- 
ing the  wife  of  Joseph  Sebesta  in  Manitowoc  county,  Wisconsin.  Anton  Nech- 
vatal then  made  his  home  with  his  mother  and  stepfather  and  in  1899  the  latter 
purchased  eighty  acres  of  slightly  improved  land  on  section  26,  township  30, 
range  7.  Anton  Nechvatal  and  his  stepbrother,  James  Sebesta,  began  farming 
this  in  partnership,  while  the  stepfather  purchased  another  tract  of  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  near  by  on  section  36.  It  was  wild  land  on  which  no  furrow  had 
been  turned,  or  improvement  made.  For  five  years  Joseph  Sebesta  lived  upon 
his  farm  assisting  the  boys,  but  he  now  makes  his  home  in  Manitowoc  county 
where  he  owns  a good  tract  of  land.  Anton  Nechvatal  and  his  stepbrother  pur- 
chased the  land  in  Chippewa  county  from  Mr.  Sebesta.  They  today  own  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  each  and  are  progressive  farmers,  carrying  on  their  work 
along  modern  lines,  productive  of  good  results.  Mr.  Nechvatal  has  recently 
erected  good  buildings  upon  his  place,  including  a modern  residence  and  substan- 
tial barns  and  outbuildings.  He  came  to  this  county  in  1901  and  has  lived  at  his 
present  place  since  1906. 

Mr.  Nechvatal  was  married  in  Chippewa  county  to  Miss  Mary  Foreman,  who 
was  born  in  South  Dakota  and  is  a daughter  of  John  Foreman,  who  now  lives  in 
this  county.  Unto  this  marriage  have  been  born  three  children : Emil,  Edward 
and  Lester. 

Mr.  Nechvatal  is  independent  in  politics,  nor  does  he  seek  or  desire  office.  He 
prefers  to  concentrate  his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs  and  by  unremitting 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


441 


industry  and  perseverance  has  gained  the  success  which  has  come  to  him.  He  is 
yet  a comparatively  young  man,  but  has  already  attained  a measure  of  prosperity 
that  others  might  envy  and  his  history  shows  what  may  be  accomplished  when 
one  has  the  will  to  dare  and  to  do. 


CHARLES  KENNEDY. 

Charles  Kennedy  lives  upon  a fine  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  two 
and  one-half  miles  southeast  of  Bloomer  and  this  property  he  and  his  brother 
Wright  operate  in  a progressive  and  practical  manner.  He  was  born  upon  the 
homestead  in  1885  and  is  a son  of  Charles  Kennedy.  He  acquired  his  education 
in  the  district  schools  of  Chippewa  county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  worked 
at  various  places  in  the  United  States,  going  as  far  west  as  the  Pacific  coast.  In 
1911  he  returned  to  Wisconsin  and  he  and  his  brother  purchased  the  interests  of 
the  other  heirs  in  the  homestead.  Since  that  time  they  have  engaged  together 
in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  have  met  with  a substantial  and  gratifying 
success.  The  farm  is  a well  improved  one,  Mr.  Kennedy’s  mother  having  erected 
all  of  the  buildings,  and  nothing  is  neglected  which  will  add  to  its  attractive 
appearance  or  value. 

Mr.  Kennedy  is  independent  in  his  political  views,  voting  for  men  and 
measures  without  regard  to  party  lines.  He  is  one  of  the  well  known  farmers 
of  this  locality  and  is  a careful,  prudent  man  of  business  who  merits  and  enjoys 
the  confidence  and  esteem  of  the  entire  community. 


JOHN  O'ROURKE. 

John  O’Rourke,  one  of  the  practical,  progressive  and  able  farmers  of  Auburn 
township,  owns  a fine  property  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  three  miles  west 
of  Bloomer,  and  another  tract  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  in  that  locality. 
He  was  born  in  Canada,  November  19,  1855,  and  is  a son  of  Samuel  O’Rourke, 
also  a native  of  the  Dominion.  He  engaged  in  farming  during  his  active  life 
but  is  now  living  retired,  making  his  home  with  the  subject  of  this  review.  He 
and  his  wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Olive  Geumo,  became  the  par- 
ents of  eight  children. 

John  O’Rourke  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Canada  and 
after  laying  aside  his  books  assisted  his  father  with  the  operation  of  the  home- 
stead until  1876.  In  that  year  he  went  to  Chicago,  going  from  there  to  Chippewa 
Falls.  He  turned  his  attention  to  farming  in  Chippewa  county  in  1904,  moving  on 
to  his  present  property,  and  he  has  since  given  his  attention  almost  entirely  to 
his  agricultural  interests,  his  holdings  now  comprising  two  hundred  and  eighty 
acres.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairying  and  his  property  is  well 
kept,  having  a comfortable  residence  and  all  the  necessary  buildings  and  ma- 
chinery. 


442 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  O’Rourke  married  Miss  Clara  Ayotte,  and  they  became  the  parents  of 
thirteen  children : Liza,  who  married  Harry  Clarke  and  has  three  children, 

Claude,  Kenneth  and  Clarence ; Samuel ; Marshall ; Emma,  who  has  passed  away ; 
Anna  ; Adrian  ; Harry ; Leonard ; Elo ; Arthur ; Clara ; Bernard ; and  a child  who 
died  in  infancy. 

Mr.  O’Rourke  is  a member  of  the  Roman  Catholic  church  of  Bloomer  and 
is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  He  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party.  His  business  affairs  are  carefully 
conducted  and  his  substantial  qualities  make  him  a valued  citizen  as  well  as  a 
prosperous  and  progressive  farmer. 


OSCAR  BEKKEN. 

Oscar  Bekken,  a prosperous  farmer  of  Bloomer  township,  carrying  on  general 
farming  and  dairying  upon  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  of  land  three  miles 
southeast  of  Bloomer,  was  born  upon  this  property  in  1881.  He  is  a son  of 
Otto  Bekken,  a native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States  as  a young 
man  and  located  in  Bloomer  township,  following  farming  from  that  time  until  his 
death  with  the  exception  of  four  years  which  he  spent  as  the  proprietor  of  a 
hotel  in  Superior.  He  died  in  that  city  at  the  age  of  forty-three.  His  wife,  who 
was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Anna  Jackson,  survives  him  and  makes  her  home 
in  Sparta.  They  became  the  parents  of  four  children : two  daughters  who  have 
passed  away ; Oscar,  of  this  review ; and  Aleck,  a resident  of  Sparta. 

Oscar  Bekken  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming.  After  his 
father’s  death  he  aided  his  mother  with  the  operation  of  the  homestead  and  has 
since  purchased  the  property,  remodeling  the  house  which  she  built  upon  it.  He 
gives  his  attention  largely  to  dairying  and  raising  potatoes  and  is  meeting  with  a 
substantial  degree  of  success,  following  always  the  most  progressive  and  prac- 
tical methods. 

Mr.  Bekken  married  Miss  Minnie  Anderson,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  five  children,  Edward,  Herbert,  Olga,  Alice  and  Mabel.  Mr.  Bekken  is  a mem- 
ber of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs. 
He  is  one  of  Bloomer  township’s  most  progressive  and  successful  native  sons 
and  his  straightforward  dealing,  together  with  his  industry,  have  won  him  an 
excellent  reputation  as  a substantial  and  desirable  citizen. 


JACOB  GEHRING. 

With  the  exception  of  a few  years  spent  in  Kansas,  Jacob  Gehring  has  been 
identified  with  the  farming  interests  of  Chippewa  county  since  1864  and  during 
that  time  has  made  his  name  respected  and  esteemed  in  this  section  of  the 
state,  for  he  is  an  enterprising  and  energetic  business  man,  who  carefully  con- 
trols his  individual  interests  and  at  the  same  time  is  never  unmindful  of  his 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


443 


duties  of  citizenship.  He  was  born  in  Germany  in  1849,  a son  °f  Jacob  Gehring, 
who  came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1864  and  engaged  in  farming  here.  He  was 
killed  in  a railroad  accident  at  C-lenwood,  Iowa,  when  he  was  sixty-eight  years 
of  age.  His  wife,  who  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Barbara  Werner,  died  in 
Tilden  township. 

Jacob  Gehring  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Germany  and  ac- 
companied his  parents  to  America  when  he  was  fifteen  years  of  age.  At  a very 
early  period  he  became  identified  with  farming  interests  in  Chippewa  county  but 
after  a few  years  moved  to  Kansas,  where,  however,  he  spent  only  a short  time. 
Returning  to  Chippewa  county,  he  located  upon  his  present  farm  and  here  he 
has  since  engaged  in  general  agricultural  pursuits  and  dairying,  witnessing  a 
great  deal  of  advancement  of  the  county  and  taking  advantage  of  the  opportuni- 
ties thus  offered  to  further  his  own  interests  and  promote  the  general  welfare. 

Mr.  Gehring  married  Miss  Mary  E.  Maier,  and  they  have  nine  children: 
Rose,  Eddie,  Susie,  Louise,  Emma,  Clara,  George,  Arthur,  and  Robert.  Mr. 
Gehring  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs,  holds  membership  in  the  Methodist 
Episcopal  church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of 
America.  He  is  an  energetic  man,  having  always  been  inspired  by  a spirit  of 
progress,  and  his  long  years  of  success  and  his  present  prosperity  are  due 
entirely  to  his  own  exertions. 


FRANK  WAGNER. 


Frank  Wagner  carries  on  general  agricultural  pursuits  on  section  14, 
Howard  township,  where  he  has  a farm  of  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  that 
pays  golden  tribute  to  the  care  and  labor  he  bestows  upon  it.  He  has  always 
made  his  home  in  Chippewa  county,  his  birth  having  occurred  here  in  October, 
1869.  He  is  a son  of  John  Peter  and  Mary  (Ball)  Wagner,  who  for  many 
years  were  residents  of  this  part  of  the  state.  The  father,  however,  died  in 
1882,  but  the  mother  still  survives  and  makes  her  home  in  Chippewa  Falls. 
In  their  family  were  five  children:  John,  who  died  in  February,  1913,  and  was 

laid  to  rest  in  the  Tilden  cemetery;  Mary,  the  wife  of  Alexander  McClennan, 
residing  at  Clear  Lake,  Wisconsin;  Frank;  Matthew,  a machinist  of  Portland, 
Oregon;  and  Anne,  who  died  in  the  spring  of  1899,  her  remains  also  being  laid 
away  in  the  Tilden  cemetery. 

Frank  Wagner  became  a pupil  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county  and 
pursued  his  education  to  the  age  of  fourteen  years,  when  his  text  books  were 
laid  aside  and  he  began  farm  work  on  his  father’s  place,  there  remaining  until 
the  father’s  death,  after  which  he  assisted  his  brother  on  his  farm  which  was 
later  inherited  by  Frank  Wagner  according  to  the  terms  of  his  brother’s  will.  He 
is  today  cultivating  about  two  hundred  acres  of  the  farm  which  comprises  two 
hundred  and  forty  acres  and  he  devotes  his  attention  to  the  raising  of  grain  and 
to  the  conduct  of  a dairy.  All  modern  equipments  and  accessories  are  found  upon 
his  place  and  the  methods  which  he  employs  in  tilling  his  fields  are  productive 
of  excellent  results.  His  dairy  too  is  well  appointed  and  he  finds  a ready  sale 


444 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


for  its  products.  ITis  life  has  been  one  of  intense  activity  intelligently  directed 
and  the  years  have  crowned  his  labors  with  success. 

Mr.  Wagner  was  married  in  this  county  in  the  fall  of  1893  1°  Miss  Emma 
Olson,  a daughter  of  Tobias  and  Mary  Olson,  who  are  now  residents  of  Wash- 
ington. Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wagner  have  eleven  children:  Clara,  Lawrence,  Mamie, 

Tobias,  Viola,  George,  Eva,  William,  Fred,  Theresa  and  David.  All  are  still  at 
home  with  the  exception  of  the  eldest  daughter,  Clara,  who  is  now  the  wife  of 
Joe  Clarrisea,  a liquor  dealer  of  St.  Paul.  The  family  home  is  a pleasant  one 
and  Mr.  Wagner  has  erected  other  substantial  buildings  upon  his  farm,  furnish- 
ing ample  shelter  to  grain  and  stock. 

Mr.  Wagner  holds  membership  in  the  Catholic  church  and  in  politics  is 
independent,  voting  for  the  man  who  he  thinks  best  suited  for  office,  regardless 
of  party  connections.  A life-long  resident  of  Chippewa  county,  he  is  well  known 
and  that  his  life  has  been  well  spent  is  indicated  by  the  fact  that  many  of  his 
stanchest  friends  are  those  who  have  known  him  from  his  boyhood  to  the 
present  time. 


A.  P.  BATEMAN. 

A.  P.  Bateman  is  the  owner  of  an  excellent  farm  of  two  hundred  and  ninety- 
seven  acres  on  section  7,  Lafayette  township,  where  he  resides.  Tie  has  lived 
in  this  county  since  1854  and  in  all  of  the  years  which  have  since  come  and  gone 
has  been  an  interested  witness  of  the  changes  which  have  occurred  and  has 
borne  his  part  in  the  work  of  general  development  and  improvement.  He  was 
only  six  years  of  age  when  he  arrived  in  the  county  having  been  born  in  Sun 
Prairie,  Dane  county,  Wisconsin,  November  10,  1848.  He  comes  of  Irish  ancestry 
and  is  a son  of  M.  P.  and  Mary  E.  (Enyert)  Bateman.  The  father  came  to  this 
county  in  1853  and  bought  out  the  interest  of  his  brother,  John  Berry  Bateman, 
and  in  1854  settled  here  with  his  family.  At  the  time  of  his  arrival  the  entire 
county  was  largely  a wilderness.  The  land  was  covered  with  a heavy  growth  of 
timber  and  Mr.  Bateman  cleared  a large  amount  of  it.  He  was  an  enterprising 
farmer  and  a progressive  and  popular  citizen.  He  operated  a sawmill,  taking  the 
lumber  down  the  Mississippi  river  to  various  markets.  The  Bateman  railroad 
station  and  schoolhouse  were  named  in  his  honor.  For  many  years  he  served  his 
town  as  chairman  and  took  a general  interest  in  the  welfare  and  improvement  of 
the  county.  His  political  support  was  always  given  to  the  republican  party.  He 
died  May  20,  1880,  at  the  age  of  sixty-two  years  and  his  wife,  long  surviving  him, 
passed  away  November  28,  1902.  Both  were  laid  to  rest  in  the  family  lot  in  the 
Lafayette  cemetery. 

A.  P.  Bateman  acquired  his  education  in  Frenchtown  and  Eau  Claire,  Wis- 
consin. He  was  eighteen  years  of  age  when  he  left  the  log  schoolhouse  to  learn 
the  more  difficult  lessons  which  one  must  master  in  the  school  of  experience. 
He  met  the  usual  hardships  of  pioneer  life  yet  he  made  good  use  of  his  time  and 
opportunities.  There  were  still  many  Indians  and  few  white  people  in  the  dis- 
trict during  the  period  of  his  youth.  Eau  Claire  at  that  time  contained  a sawmill, 
a blacksmith  shop  and  a boarding  house,  but  today  has  a population  of  twenty- 


MR.  AND  MRS.  A.  P.  BATEMAN 


MR.  AND  MRS.  M.  P.  BATEMAN 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


449 


two  thousand.  Similar  conditions  existed  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  thus  it  is  that 
Mr.  Bateman  has  witnessed  almost  the  entire  growth  and  development  of  his 
section  of  the  state.  He  worked  in  the  lumber  woods  in  connection  with  farm- 
ing and  also  operated  the  sawmill  that  was  formerly  owned  by  his  father.  He 
cleared  about  ninety  acres  of  land  himself  and  had  a tract  of  similar  size  under 
cultivation.  He  also  became  the  owner  of  one  hundred  sixty  acres  on  section  io, 
Lafayette  township,  and  his  total  holdings  now  comprise  four  hundred  and 
fifty-seven  acres.  Mr.  Bateman  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and  he 
has  won  success  in  all  that  he  has  undertaken.  He  is  determined  and  industrious 
and  his  honorable  efforts  have  brought  him  reward. 

Mr.  Bateman  was  married  at  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  July  7,  1881,  to  Aliss 
Isabella  Hannon,  of  Cadott,  a daugher  of  Patrick  Hannon,  a farmer  of  Sigel 
township.  Mrs.  Isabella  (Hannon)  Bateman  died  January  7,  1896,  and  on  De- 
cember 28,  1898,  Mr.  Bateman  married  Catherine  E.  Allen,  a daughter  of  John 
and  Jane  (Hall)  Allen,  natives  of  Ireland,  who  settled  first  in  Germantown,  then 
in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  and  later  in  Cleveland  township,  where  the  father 
engaged  in  farming.  The  mother  died  April  24,  1907,  but  the  father  is  still 
living  near  our  subject’s  farm.  Mrs.  Bateman  taught  in  the  public  schools  of 
this  county  for  eight  years. 

Mr.  Bateman  has  a family  of  ten  children,  seven  born  of  his  first  marriage  and 
three  of  his  second.  The  children  of  the  first  marriage  are  Blanche,  the  wife  of 
Roy  Barker,  a farmer  of  Kirkland,  Washington ; Hilda,  the  wife  of  Tames  Love, 
a farmer  of  Montana;  Carrie,  the  wife  of  C.  Simmons,  a farmer  of  Touchet, 
Washington;  Bessie,  who  died  at  the  age  of  nine  years  and  is  buried  in  the  Bate- 
man cemetery ; Forrest,  a farmer  of  Sigel  township ; Charles  and  Ernest  who  are 
assisting  their  father.  The  three  children  of  the  second  marriage  are  Chester, 
Helen  and  Henry,  all  of  whom  are  attending  school.  The  family  home  is  one 
of  the  finest  residences  in  Chippewa  county  and  upon  the  farm  are  substantial 
barns  and  all  other  modern  improvements. 

In  politics  Mr.  Bateman  is  a republican,  earnest  and  stalwart  in  support  of 
his  party,  and  he  has  served  as  chairman  in  Lafayette  township.  He  was  for- 
merly a member  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  and  belongs  to  the 
Episcopal  church  as  does  his  wife.  His  life  has  been  active,  useful  and  honor- 
able and  he  enjoys  the  respect  and  friendship  of  the  many  friends  and  neighbors 
among  whom  he  has  long  lived.  Having  been  a resident  of  the  county  for  almost 
six  decades  he  deserves  to  be  numbered  among  its  pioneer  citizens. 


ISAAC  LUND. 

Isaac  Lund,  who  for  the  past  twenty-two  years  has  engaged  in  general  farm- 
ing and  dairying  upon  a fine  property  of  two  hundred  acres,  three-quarters 
of  a mile  west  of  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Norway,  and  is  a son  of  Austin  Lund, 
also  a native  of  that  country,  where  he  resided  until  his  death.  Isaac  Lund 
came  to  America  when  he  was  twenty  years  of  age  and  for  a time  worked  in 
the  mills  and  stores  in  the  vicinity  of  Eau  Claire,  this  state.  He  remained  there 
four  and  one-half  years  and  at  the  end  of  that  time  went  to  Nine  Mile  House, 

• Vol.  IT— 24 


450 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


this  county,  where  he  remained  five  years,  spending  one  year  as  chore  boy  for 
G.  P.  Hopkins  and  the  remainder  of  the  time  in  the  logging  business.  He  came 
to  Bloomer  township  about  1883  and  twenty-two  years  ago  located  upon  his  pres- 
ent farm,  where  he  engages  in  general  agricultural  pursuits  and  dairying.  He 
has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  the  property  and  has  steadily  carried  for- 
ward the  work  of  improvement  and  development,  the  years  bringing  him  steadily 
increasing  success  and  prominence. 

Mr.  Lund  married  Miss  Lena  Thompson  and  they  have  five  children,  Ida, 
Edwin,  Alma,  Ella  and  Laura.  Mr.  Lund  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran 
church  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows 
and  the  Equitable  Fraternal  Union.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  re- 
publican party  and  during  the  thirty  years  of  his  residence  here  has  been  active 
in  public  affairs,  serving  for  two  years  as  sheriff  of  the  county,  for  one  year 
as  treasurer-  of  the  town  board,  for  twelve  years  as  chairman  and  for  a long 
period  as  a member  of  the  school  board.  He  is  a man  of  good  business  ability, 
recognized  as  an  industrious  and  able  farmer  who  has  made  good  use  of  his 
opportunities  and  has  therefore  prospered  from  year  to  year. 


F.  B.  WOODARD. 

F.  B.  Woodard,  one  of  the  progressive  and  successful  young  farmers  and 
stock-raisers  of  Bloomer  township,  owns  seventy-five  acres  of  land  a half  mile 
west  of  Bioomer  and  rents  his  father’s  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres. 
He  constantly  follows  the  most  practical  and  modern  methods  in  the  development 
of  this  property,  and  at  an  early  age  has  won  a gratifying  degree  of  success. 
He  is  a native  of  Chippewa  county,  born  on  the  old  home  farm  June  5,  1883, 
his  father  being  Western  Woodard,  well  known  in  agricultural  circles  of  this 
locality. 

F.  B.  Woodard  was  reared  upon  the  homestead  and  when  he  was  still  a 
child  assisted  with  its  operation,  becoming  in  this  way  familiar  with  the  best 
agricultural  methods.  He  acquired  his  early  education  in  the  public  schools  of 
Bloomer  and  afterward  took  a course  in  agriculture  in  the  State  University  at 
Madison.  After  completing  it  he  returned  to  Bloomer  township,  purchased 
seventy-five  acres  of  land  and  rented  one  hundred  and  sixty  from  his  father, 
turning  his  attention  to  farming,  stock-raising  and  dairying.  He  makes  a specialty 
of  raising  pure-bred  stock  and  his  herd  is  headed  by  Reg  Guernsey,  a bull  whose 
dam  as  a two  year  old  produced  milk  from  which  four  hundred  and  fifteen  pounds 
of  butter  were  made  in  one  year.  Mr.  Woodard  has  thirty  pure-blood  milch 
cows,  all  registered,  one  of  which  when  three  years  old  produced  milk  from  which 
four  hundred  and  fifty  pounds  of  butter  fat  was  obtained.  Cream  and  other 
dairy  products  are  shipped  to  eastern  markets  where  they  command  a high  price 
and  a ready  sale. 

Mr.  Woodard  married  Miss  Ida  Trankle  and  both  are  well  and  favorably 
known  in  this  part  of  the  county.  Mr.  Woodard  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs  and  is  at  present  a member  of  the  school  board.  He  is  counted  among 
the  men  who  by  their  scientific  methods  and  unremitting  industry  have  made 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


451 


distinct  contributions  to  the  agricultural  development  of  this  section  and  although 
he  is  still  a young  man  is  already  classed  with  representative  and  successful 
citizens. 


JACOB  WIRTH. 

Jacob  Wirth,  a substantial  farmer  and  highly  respected  citizen  of  Auburn 
township,  where  he  is  the  proprietor  of  a farm  of  three  hundred  and  twenty 
acres,  is  a native  of  Switzerland,  born  in  1875.  His  father,  Conrad  Wirth,  came 
to  the  United  States  in  1879,  settling  first  in  Michigan  and  later  in  Milwaukee, 
this  state.  He  came  to  Chippewa  county  about  the  year  1898  and  turned  his 
attention  to  farming,  dying  upon  the  property  now  owned  by  the  subject  of  this 
review  when  he  was  sixty  years  of  age.  He  married  Miss  Elizabeth  Bienz,  and 
they  had  four  children. 

Jacob  Wirth  was  four  years  of  age  when  he  accompanied  his  parents  to 
America  and  he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county. 
He  afterward  turned  his  attention  to  farming  upon  the  homestead  and  after  his 
father’s  death  came  into  possession  of  the  property.  He  has  since  concentrated 
his  attention  upon  its  development  and  the  results  of  his  labors  are  seen  in  its 
attractive  and  excellent  condition.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  has  also 
extensive  dairy  interests. 

Mr.  Wirth  married  Miss  Mary  Price,  and  they  have  five  children,  Margaret, 
John,  Charles,  George  and  Albert.  Mr.  Wirth  is  connected  fraternally  with  the 
Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  the  Beavers  and  his  religious  views  are  in 
accord  with  the  doctrines  of  the  German  Lutheran  church.  He  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  at  the  present  time  serving  as  chairman 
of  the  town  board.  He  is  a man  of  high  business  and  personal  principles,  thor- 
oughly reliable  in  all  his  transactions,  and  to  his  unflagging  industry  and  well 
directed  efforts  may  be  attributed  the  success  he  has  attained. 


J.  TYLER  PAINE. 

Agricultural  interests  of  Bloomer  township  find  a progressive  and  worthy 
representative  in  J.  Tyler  Paine,  living  upon  a fine  propertv  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  two  and  one-fourth  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer.  He  is  a member 
of  one  of  the  well  known  pioneer  families  of  this  section,  being  a son  of  Simeon 
S.  Paine,  a native  of  Maine,  who  mined  in  California  for  a number  of  years 
and  who  came  to  Wisconsin  in  1865.  Two  years  later  he  purchased  the  farm 
now  owned  by  the  subject  of  this  review  and  upon  the  property  engaged  success- 
fully in  agricultural  pursuits  until  his  death  which  occurred  when  he  was  fifty- 
two  years  of  age.  He  married  Miss  Martha  M.  Usry  and  they  became  the  par- 
ents of  four  children:  Joseph  M.,  who  lives  in  Montana;  J.  Tyler,  of  this  review; 
Mrs.  Alma  H.  Donahue;  and  Mrs.  Elizabeth  Louise  Kyle. 


452 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


J.  Tyler  Paine  was  born  in  Sacramento  county,  California,  in  1865  and  before 
he  was  one  year  old  was  brought  to  Chippewa  county,  this  state,  where  he  has 
since  resided.  He  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools,  dividing  his  time 
in  his  childhood  between  his  studies  and  work  upon  his  father’s  farm.  After 
laying  aside  his  books  he  began  farming  upon  the  homestead  which  has  been  his 
property  since  the  death  of  his  father.  He  has  made  substantial  improvements 
upon  it,  providing  it  with  excellent  buildings  and  modern  machinery  and  the 
farm  is  today  one  of  the  finest  and  most  productive  in  this  section  of  the  county. 

Mr.  Paine  married  Miss  Nettie  May  McGregor  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  six  children:  John  Lyman  and  Simeon  Lyle,  twins;  Iva;  Malcolm; 
Mary;  and  Archie.  Fraternally  Mr.  Paine  is  identified  with  the  Order  of  Beavers 
and  he  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  is  one  of  the  active  and  progres- 
sive farmers  of  this  township,  a man  of  good  business  capacity  and  enterprise  and 
of  unquestioned  business  integrity,  and  he  enjoys  in  unusual  degree  the  confidence 
and  respect  of  the  entire  community. 


JOSEPH  PAULUS. 

Joseph  Paulus,  the  proprietor  of  the  Central  Hotel  in  Bloomer  and  well  known 
in  this  locality  as  a farsighted  and  able  business  man,  was  born  in  Germany  in 
1872  and  is  a son  of  Sylvester  Paulus,  a native  of  that  country,  who  came  to 
the  United  States  in  1882,  settling  in  Wisconsin.  He  followed  farming  for  a 
number  of  years  thereafter,  dying  in  Douglas  county  in  1912. 

Joseph  Paulus  was  ten  years  of  age  when  he  accompanied  his  parents  to 
America  and  his  education  was  completed  in  the  public  schools  of  Wisconsin. 
After  he  grew  to  manhood  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  buying  two  hundred 
and  forty  acres  six  miles  west  of  Bloomer.  This  property  he  sold  in  1911  and 
moved  into  the  town,  where  he  purchased  the  Central  Hotel,  which  he  has  since 
owned.  He  has  proved  capable  and  farsighted  in  the  management  of  his  interests 
and  the  hotel  is  conducted  according  to  a progressive  policy  which  has  made  it  a 
very  popular  hostelry. 

Mr.  Paulus  married  Miss  Lillian  Crisman  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  two  children,  Leon  and  Mildred.  Mr.  Paulus  is  a republican  in  his  political 
beliefs  and  has  served  as  a member  of  the  side  board  and  as  school  clerk.  His 
attention  is,  however,  chiefly  concentrated  upon  his  business  affairs,  in  which  he 
has  won  gratifying  and  well  merited  success. 


JAMES  SEBESTA. 

lames  Sebesta  is  the  owner  of  a farm  on  section  26,  township  30,  range  7, 
Chippewa  county.  He  was  born  in  Manitowoc  county,  January  24,  1883,  a son 
of  Joseph  Sebesta.  IT  is  own  mother  died  when  he  was  very  young  and  the  father 
afterward  married  Mrs.  Joseph  Nechvatal.  The  family  home  was  established 
in  Chippewa  county  in  1901,  after  which  he  and  his  stepbrother,  Anton  Nechvatal, 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


453 


engaged  in  farming  in  partnership,  on  land  which  his  father  had  purchased  in 
1899.  Later  the  subject  of  this  review  purchased  the  farm  and  he  now  owns 
one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  the  rich  land  which  has  made  this  section  of 
the  state  famous.  The  farm  was  improved  with  good  buildings,  which  he  has 
ever  kept  in  a state  of  excellent  repair.  The  place  is  divided  into  fields  of  con- 
venient size,  by  well  kept  fences,  and  the  farm  work  is  conducted  along  pro- 
gressive lines  productive  of  good  results.  Mr.  Sebesta  and  his  stepbrother  still 
work  together  and  have  always  maintained  many  interests  in  common.  Mr. 
Sebesta  conducts  a dairy  business  in  addition  to  general  farming,  the  rich  meadow 
lands  affording  excellent  pasturage  to  his  stock.  The  products  of  his  dairy 
command  a good  sale  and  the  income  derived  therefrom  is  a substantial  one. 

Mr.  Sebesta  was  married  in  Chippewa  county  to  Miss  Emma  Vlasnik.  daugh- 
ter of  Joseph  Vlasnik,  a farmer  of  the  same  township.  Their  children  are  two 
in  number,  Charles  and  Alois.  Industry  is  the  rule  of  Mr.  Sebesta’s  life  and  to 
it  he  has  closely  adhered.  It  is  thus  that  he  has  worked  his  way  upward  step 
by  step  until  he  is  now  classed  with  the  representative  agriculturists  of  the 
community. 


GOTTLIEB  TURNER. 

Gottlieb  Turner  is  known  as  one  of  the  representative  farmers  of  Eagle  Point 
township.  His  home  is  situated  six  miles  east  of  Bloomer  and  the  farm  com- 
prises one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  rich  and  arable  land,  in  addition  to  which 
he  owns  eighty  acres  of  timber  land.  He  was  born  in  Germany,  seventy-six 
years  ago,  his  birth  having  occurred  on  the  19th  of  August,  1837.  He  was  but 
a young  lad  when  his  father  died.  His  youth  was  spent  in  Germany,  but  the 
stories  which  he  heard  concerning  the  opportunities  of  the  new  world  led  him 
at  length  to  try  his  fortune  on  this  side  the  Atlantic.  He  made  his  way  to  the 
United  States  when  twenty-seven  years  of  age,  arriving  in  1865.  He  did  not 
tarry  on  the  eastern  coast  but  continued  overland  and  at  length  reached  Chip- 
pewa county,  settling  at  once  upon  the  farm  which  has  since  been  his  home. 
When  it  came  into  his  possession  it  was  covered  with  a dense  growth  of  timber. 
He  has  cleared  the  entire  place,  performing  the  arduous  task  of  cutting  away  the 
trees,  grubbing  up  the  stumps  and  preparing  the  land  for  the  plow.  The  soil, 
naturally  rich  and  productive,  has  brought  to  him  substantial  harvests  as  the 
years  have  gone  by  and  success  has  rewarded  his  labors,  so  that  he  is  now  in  com- 
fortable financial  circumstances.  He  has  erected  all  of  the  buildings  upon  his 
farm  and  he  is  one  of  the  oldest  settlers  of  his  part  of  the  county.  He  carries 
on  general  agricultural  pursuits  and  dairying,  and  both  branches  of  his  business 
have  brought  to  him  substantial  returns.  In  the  early  days  he  had  to  cradle  his 
wheat  and  do  his  mowing  by  hand,  but  as  the  years  have  gone  by  he  has  been 
enabled  to  purchase  the  modern,  improved  machinery  and  now  has  all  of  the 
farm  implements  and  accessories  necessary  to  facilite  the  work  of  the  fields. 

It  was  after  his  arrival  in  this  county  that  Mr.  Turner  was  united  in  mar- 
riage to  Miss  Paulina  Rietz,  and  they  became  the  parents  of  ten  children,  but 
Ed,  the  second  born,  is  deceased,  and  the  youneest  died  in  infancy.  Those  still 
living  are  William,  Gust,  Emil,  Henry,  Samuel,  Ida,  Lelia  and  Bertha. 


454 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Mr.  Turner  is  an  independent  voter,  supporting  men  and  measures  rather 
than  party.  He  belongs  to  the  Lutheran  church  at  Bloomer  and  contributed 
generously  toward  its  building.  He  has  always  been  interested  in  the  moral 
development  of  the  community  and  his  life  has  been  a potent  force  in  promoting 
progress  along  that  line.  For  almost  a half  century  he  has  lived  in  this  county 
and  his  memory  forms  a connecting  link  between  the  primitive  past  and  the  pro- 
gressive present.  He  has  lived  to  see  the  forests  cut  down  and  the  land  con- 
verted into  productive  farms,  while  towns  and  villages  have  sprung  up  and  been 
transformed  into  thriving  cities.  He  rejoices  in  what  has  been  accomplished 
and,  while  he  has  many  pleasant  memories  of  the  past,  he  is  not  one  who  claims 
that  the  days  of  old  were  better  than  present  times. 


ROBERT  MEIER. 

A native  son  of  Chippewa  county  and  one  of  the  most  successful  agriculturists 
and  dairymen  of  Auburn  township  is  Robert  Meier,  who  was  born  upon  the 
property  he  now  operates  in  1885.  He  is  a son  of  John  Meier,  for  many  years 
a well  known  agriculturist  in  that  locality. 

Robert  Meier  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  this  county  and 
during  his  childhood  aided  his  father  with  the  operation  of  the  homestead. 
Since  the  latter  went  west  Mr.  Meier  of  this  review  has  had  entire  charge  of 
the  property,  which  comprises  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  and  lies  four  and  a 
half  miles  west  of  Bloomer.  There  are  excellent  buildings  upon  the  place  and 
modern  machinery  and  Mr.  Meier  follows  the  most  practical  and  progressive 
methods  in  its  operation.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and  his 
close  application  and  unfaltering  energy  have  constituted  strong  features  in 
his  success. 

Mr.  Meier  married,  in  1910,  Miss  Augusta  Lamberg,  a native  of  Chippewa 
county,  and  they  have  two  children,  Edna  and  Alma.  Mr.  Meier  is  a republican 
in  his  political  beliefs  and  a devout  member  of  the  German  Lutheran  church. 
He  is  still  a young  man  but  has  already  secured  a high  place  in  agricultural  circles, 
while  his  straightforward  and  upright  life  has  gained  for  him  the  esteem  and 
regard  of  the  entire  community. 


FRED  CRANK. 


Fred  Crank,  who  since  1867  has  lived  upon  a fine  farm  of  two  hundred  and 
twenty  acres  in  Bloomer  township,  is  known  as  an  excellent  representative  of  the 
agricultural  life  of  this  community,  a man  to  whom  many  years  of  well  directed 
labor  have  brought  a substantial  and  gratifying  success.  He  was  born  in  Wauke- 
sha in  1850,  and  is  a son  of  Anton  Crank,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to 
the  United  States  when  he  was  about  twenty-two  years  of  age.  He  settled  first 
in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  whence  he  moved  to  Waukesha,  there  engaging  in 
railroad  work  and  helping  to  build  the  first  track  in  that  locality.  He  after- 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


455 


ward  turned  his  attention  to  farming  in  Chippewa  county,  dying  when  he  was 
past  sixty  years  of  age.  He  married  in  this  county  and  had  six  children. 

Fred  Crank  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Waukesha  and 
after  laying  aside  his  books  worked  in  the  lumber  woods  and  in  the  sawmills  until 
1867.  He  then  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  on  March  17th  of  that  year  pur- 
chased two  hundred  and  twenty  acres  in  Bloomer  township,  a property  whereon 
he  has  since  resided.  For  a time  he  worked  also  in  the  lumber  woods  but  of 
late  has  concentrated  his  attention  entirely  upon  his  agricultural  and  dairy  inter- 
ests which  are  today  extensive  and  important. 

Mr.  Crank  has  been  twice  married.  He  wedded  first  Miss  Anna  Baumgan  and 
after  her  death  married  Helen  Derrick.  He  has  six  children,  Joe,  John,  Fred, 
Anton,  Maggie,  and  Agnes.  Mr.  Crank  is  a member  of  the  Catholic  church 
of  Brush  Prairie  and  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Catholic  Knights.  His 
political  allegiance  is  given  to  the  democratic  party  and  he  has  served  for  two 
years  on  the  town  board  and  for  sixteen  years  on  the  side  board.  He  is  interested 
in  everything  pertaining  to  the  welfare  of  the  community,  being  heartily  in  sym- 
pathy with  movements  for  its  material,  political  and  moral  progress. 


R.  E.  LOOFBORO. 

Probably  no  farmer  in  Sampson  township  is  better  known  as  a breeder  of 
high-grade  beef  cattle  than  R.  E.  Loofboro,  who  engages  in  this  occupation  and 
also  in  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  three  hundred  and  ten  acres  of  excel- 
lent land  nine  miles  north  of  Bloomer.  He  was  born  in  Clinton  county,  Iowa, 
in  i860  and  is  a son  of  John  Loofboro,  a native  of  Ohio,  who  went  to  Iowa  when 
he  was  a young  man  and  followed  farming  there  until  his  death  at  the  age  of 
.seventy.  His  wife  was  in  her  maidenhood.  Miss  Sarah  Forsythe  and  they 
became  the  parents  of  five  children. 

R.  E.  Loofboro  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Iowa,  and 
after  laying  aside  his  books  began  farming  independently,  remaining  in  his 
native  state  for  four  years  thereafter.  He  then  moved  to  Nebraska  where  he 
took  up  a homestead  upon  which  he  carried  on  general  farming  for  thirteen 
years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  came  north  to  Wisconsin  and  bought  three 
hundred  and  ten  acres  of  land  in  Sampson  township,  this  county.  This  is  his 
present  farm  and  upon  it  he  has  made  substantial  improvements,  for  when  it 
came  into  his  possession  there  were  but  forty  acres  cleared  and  no  buildings  what- 
ever upon  the  property.  One  hundred  and  fifty  acres  are  now  under  cultiva- 
tion and  in  addition  to  a silo  and  other  substantial  outbuildings,  Mr.  Loofboro 
has  one  of  the  largest  barns  in  his  section  of  the  county.  He  makes  a specialty 
of  breeding  high-grade  beef  cattle  and  is  also  a large  alfalfa  grower  and  a suc- 
cessful dairyman,  all  branches  of  his  activities  being,  under  his  able  manage- 
ment, important  and  profitable. 

Mr.  Loofboro  married  Miss  May  Madison  and  they  have  become  the  par- 
ents of  eight  children.  Mr.  Loofboro  is  a member  of  the  Seventh  Day  Baptist 
church  and  is  a democrat  in  his  political  beliefs.  Throughout  Chippewa  county 


456 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OE  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


he  is  known  as  a progressive  and  practical  farmer  and  a farsighted  and  reliable 
business  man  and  his  work  has  marked  a distinct  advance  in  the  agricultural 
development  of  his  section. 


MAX  C.  KRENZ. 

Max  C.  Krenz,  specializing  in  the  cultivation  of  small  fruits  upon  a line  farm 
of  eighty  acres  near  Bloomer,  was  born  in  Germany  in  March,  1883,  a son  of 
Ludwig  Krenz,  also  a native  of  the  fatherland.  When  the  latter  emigrated  to 
the  United  States  he  located  first  at  Monticello  where  he  remained,  however, 
only  a few  months.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county  and 
for  some  time  made  his  home  in  Bloomer.  He  afterwards  turned  his  attention 
to  farming,  buying  in  1895  the  farm  in  Bloomer  township  whereon  his  son  now 
resides.  He  is  now  living  retired.  His  wife  was  in  her  maidenhood  Miss  Anna 
Croll  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children : Gust ; Charles ; and  Max  C., 
of  this  review. 

Max  C.  Krenz  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Bloomer,  having 
been  but  one  year  old  when  his  parents  moved  to  America.  After  laying  aside 
his  books  he  began  operating  his  father’s  farm  and  since  that  time  has  made  his 
home  upon  the  property  which  reflects  everywhere  the  many  years  of  care  and 
labor  which  he  has  bestowed  upon  it.  He  makes  a specialty  of  the  cultivation 
of  small  fruits  and  is  the  only  farmer  in  this  section  so  engaged.  General  farm- 
ing also  engages  his  attention  and  in  both  branches  he  has  met  with  distinct  and 
gratifying  success. 

Mr.  Krenz  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  con- 
nected fraternally  with  the  Masonic  lodge.  He  is  a devout  member  of  the 
Lutheran  church.  He  has  contributed  in  an  important  way  to  the  agricultural 
development  of  his  part  of  the  county  and  has  moreover  gained  the  esteem  and 
confidence  of  his  fellow  citizens. 


RASMUS  MULLEN. 

Rasmus  Mullen  owns  and  operates  a fine  farm  of  eighty  acres  located  four 
miles  south  of  Bloomer,  in  Tilden  township,  and  by  constantly  following  the  most 
progressive  and  practical  methods  in  its  cultivation  has  surrounded  himself  with 
an  enviable  degree  of  prosperity.  He  was  born  in  Norway  in  1877  and  acquired 
his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country.  After  laying  aside  his 
books  he  worked  in  various  localities  in  Norway  and  when  he  was  about  twenty- 
one  years  of  age  emigrated  to  America,  locating  in  Chippewa  county,  where  he 
has  since  resided.  For  several  years  he  worked  in  the  woods  around  Bloomer 
and  Superior,  but  in  1909  abandoned  this  occupation  and  turned  his  attention  to 
farming.  He  bought  eighty  acres  of  land  in  Tilden  township,  four  miles  from 
Bloomer,  and  has  since  carried  forward  the  work  of  improving  and  developing 
this  property.  There  were  a number  of  buildings  upon  the  place  when  it  came 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


457 


into  his  possession  and  to  these  he  has  added  a modern  silo.  He  engages  in  gen- 
eral farming  and  dairying  and  has  extensive  interests  along  both  lines,  his  well 
directed  labors  having  brought  him  a substantial  degree  of  prosperity. 

Mr.  Mullen  married  Miss  Sophie  Peterson,  a native  of  Norway,  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  three  children.  Herbert,  Eveline  and  Elza.  Mr. 
Mullen  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs.  He  takes  an  active  interest  in  the  affairs  of  the  community  and 
his  aid  can  always  be  counted  upon  to  further  movements  of  reform  and  advance- 
ment. In  Tilden  township  he  is  known  as  a practical  and  able  farmer  and  a pro- 
gressive citizen  and  he  commands  and  holds  the  esteem  and  high  regard  of  all 
who  are  associated  with  him. 


CHARLES  KRENZ. 

Practical  and  modern  agricultural  methods  find  a worthy  exponent  in  Charles 
Krenz,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  one  hundred  and  sixty 
acres  of  land  in  Bloomer  township,  eighty  acres  of  which  he  owns.  He  was 
born  in  Bloomer  in  1883,  and  is  a son  of  Louis  Krenz,  a well  known  farmer  of 
this  locality. 

Charles  Krenz  was  reared  at  home  and  acquired  his  education  in  the  grade 
and  high  schools  of  Bloomer.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  bought  eighty 
acres  of  land  from  his  father  and  rented  another  eighty  and  upon  this  prop- 
erty which  lies  four  miles  northwest  of  Bloomer  he  engages  in  general  farming 
and  dairying,  meeting  with  that  success  which  is  the  natural  result  of  energy 
and  ability.  He  has  made  excellent  improvements  upon  his  place,  including  a 
fine  residence  and  the  farm  is  modern  and  up-to-date  in  every  particular,  reflect- 
ing everywhere  his  constant  and  careful  supervision. 

Mr.  Krenz  married  Miss  Annie  Hilger  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of 
two  children,  Esther  and  Elmer.  Mr.  Krenz  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church 
and  connected  fraternally  with  the  Masonic  lodge.  He  is  a republican  in  his 
political  beliefs  and  active  in  his  cooperation  in  all  measures  and  movements  for 
the  public  welfare,  so  that  he  is  generally  recognized  as  a public-spirited  and 
loyal  citizen  as  well  as  a practical  and  able  farmer. 


FRANK  GARDNER. 

Frank  Gardner,  whose  residence  in  Chippewa  county  covers  almost  a third 
of  a century,  devotes  his  time  and  energies  to  dairy  farming  and  is  the  owner 
of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  30,  township  30,  range  6. 
He  was  born  in  the  state  of  New  York  in  1864,  a son  of  William  Gardner  and  a 
brother  of  H.  W.  Gardner.  His  boyhood  was  spent  in  the  Empire  state  and  his 
education  acquired  in  its  common  schools.  In  1881,  when  a youth  of  seventeen, 
he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  secured  employment  at  teaming  in 
the  woods.  Subsequently  he  purchased  a slightly  improved  tract  of  land  com- 


458 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


prising  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres,  some  of  the  trees  having  been  chopped 
down  and  the  logs  removed  but  the  stumps  still  remaining.  There  was  also  a 
small  log  house  on  the  place.  As  the  years  have  passed  Mr.  Gardner  has 
steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  now  has  ninety  acres  of 
his  land  under  cultivation  and  a set  of  substantial  and  commodious  farm  build- 
ings. 1 1 is  attention  is  given  to  dairy  farming,  and  in  this  branch  of  activity  he 
has  won  well  merited  and  gratifying  success. 

In  Chippewa  county  Mr.  Gardner  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Louise 
Goodman,  her  father  being  Mathias  Goodman,  a sketch  of  whom  appears  on 
another  page  of  this  work.  They  are  the  parents  of  three  children:  Fred,  Sidney 
and  Ella  May.  Mr.  Gardner  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party 
and  has  served  in  the  capacity  of  school  director,  the  cause  of  education  ever 
finding  in  him  a stanch  champion.  As  he  has  lived  in  this  county  for  more  than 
three  decades,  he  has  an  extensive  acquaintance  here  and  his  friends  know  him 
as  an  enterprising  agriculturist  and  a man  of  genuine  worth. 


FRED  ZIEBELL,  Jr. 

A well  developed  farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  pays  tribute  to  the 
care  and  cultivation  bestowed  upon  it  by  its  owner,  Fred  Ziebell,  Jr.  The  place 
is  pleasantly  and  conveniently  located  a mile  and  a half  north  of  Bloomer  and 
the  methods  employed  in  its  development  are  at  once  practical  and  effective.  Mr. 
Ziebell  is  yet  a young  man  and  the  success  he  has  already  attained  is  creditable 
and  gratifying.  He  was  born  in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  in  1885  and  is  a son  of 
Fred  Ziebell,  Sr.,  a native  of  Germany  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  six 
years  of  age.  The  family  located  in  Canada  but  removed  to  Milwaukee  and  then 
twenty-six  years  ago  came  to  Chippewa  county,  where  the  father  established  a 
home  a mile  west  of  the  place  upon  which  his  son  now  resides.  The  father  made 
farming  his  life  work  and  his  persistent  purpose  and  unfaltering  energy  consti- 
tuted the  foundation  of  his  growing  success.  He  married  Amelia  Schultz  who 
is  still  living  and  to  them  were  born  six  children. 

Fred  Ziebell,  Jr.,  was  a young  lad  when  the  family  came  to  Chippewa  county 
and  in  the  public  schools  of  the  district  he  received  his  education.  When  not  busy 
with  the  work  of  the  schoolroom  he  assisted  his  father  in  the  tasks  of  plowing, 
planting  and  harvesting  and  when  his  school  days  were  over  he  gave  undivided 
attention  to  farm  work  on  the  old  homestead  until  he  reached  the  age  of  twenty- 
five  years  and  then  he  removed  to  his  present  farm  in  Bloomer  township  and  has 
since  made  his  home  thereon.  He  is  busily  engaged  day  after  day  in  the  manifold 
duties  which  constitute  the  work  of  the  agriculturist  who  carries  on  general  farm- 
ing. 

Mr.  Ziebell  is  also  engaged  in  the  dairy  business  and  the  products  of  his  dairy, 
as  well  as  of  his  fields,  find  a ready  sale  on  the  market.  He  keeps  everything  about 
his  place  in  neat  condition  and  his  success  is  the  direct  outcome  of  persistent  labor 
intelligently  and  carefully  directed. 

He  was  married  to  Miss  Ida  Summerfield  of  Chippewa  county  whose  home 
was  about  four  miles  from  Bloomer.  They  have  become  the  parents  of  two  chib 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


459 


dren,  Valeria  and  one  as  yet  unnamed.  The  parents  hold  membership  in  the 
German  Lutheran  church,  contribute  liberally  to  its  support  and  are  interested 
in  its  work.  In  politics  Mr.  Ziebell  is  a republican  being  one  of  the  most  stanch 
supporters  of  the  party  to  be  found  in  Bloomer  township.  He  does  not  seek  nor 
desire  office,  however,  preferring  to  give  his  undivided  attention  to  business  affairs 
which  he  is  now  capably  managing  and  which  rank  him  among  the  progressive 
and  enterprising  young  farmers  of  his  part  of  the  county. 


CHARLES  FEHR. 

Among  the  native  sons  of  Chippewa  county  who  by  their  own  energy  and  per- 
severance have  won  well  deserved  success  in  agricultural  pursuits  is  numbered 
Charles  Fehr,  who  owns  a fine  farm  of  eighty  acres  in  Auburn  township  and  who 
operates  in  addition  a tract  of  three  hundred  and  sixty  acres  owned  by  his  father. 
He  was  born  upon  this  latter  property  in  1887,  a son  of  Baltis  Fehr,  a native  of 
Switzerland,  who  came  to  the  United  States  as  a boy,  locating  first  in  the  southern 
part  of  Wisconsin  and  later  in  Chippewa  county.  Fie  followed  farming  here  for 
many  years  but  is  now  living  retired  in  Bloomer.  He  married  Miss  Elizabeth 
Wirth  and  they  became  the  parents  of  eleven  children. 

Charles  Fehr  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming  upon  a tract  of 
eighty  acres  in  Auburn  township.  This  adjoins  his  father’s  homestead  of  three 
hundred  and  sixty  acres  and  Mr.  Fehr  operates  this  property  also,  carrying  on 
general  farming  and  dairying.  Fie  has  met  with  excellent  success  in  his  agicultural 
operations,  for  his  methods  are  at  all  times  practical  and  his  industry  is  untiring. 

Mr.  Fehr  married  Miss  Lillian  Culver  and  both  are  well  known  and  highly 
esteemed  throughout  the  township.  Mr.  Fehr  holds  membership  in  the  Lutheran 
church  and  in  politics  is  independent,  voting  for  men  and  measures  without  regard 
to  party  lines.  He  is  a man  whose  enterprise  and  honesty  have  gained  him  an 
excellent  reputation  throughout  the  county  and  he  is  numbered  among  the  pro- 
gressive and  substantial  citizens  of  Auburn  township. 


JOHN  C.  MULLEN. 

John  C.  Mullen,  who  passed  away  in  Saskatchewan,  Canada,  on  the  24th  of 
March,  1904,  was  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and  here  car- 
ried on  farming  for  more  than  a third  of  a century,  owning  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  of  land  on  section  29,  township  31,  range  7.  He  was  born  in  Canada 
on  the  13th  of  July,  1839,  and  in  that  country  spent  the  first  twenty-nine  years  of 
his  life.  In  1868  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wisconsin,  and  purchased  a 
quarter  section  of  wild  land  which  was  covered  with  a dense  timber  growth. 
Undertaking  the  arduous  task  of  clearing  the  property,  he  eventually  prepared 
the  land  for  cultivation  and  also  made  a number  of  substantial  improvements 
thereon,  erecting  a commodious  residence  and  good  barn.  Here  he  carried  on 


460 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


general  agricultural  pursuits  with  success  until  1902,  when  he  removed  to  Sas- 
katchewan, Canada,  and  took  up  a homestead,  there  passing  away  on  the  24th  of 
March,  1904.  He  was  one  of  the  earliest  settlers  of  Chippewa  county  and  long 
enjoyed  an  enviable  reputation  as  one  of  its  substantial  agriculturists  and  esteemed 
citizens.  His  widow  and  son  Ray  still  reside  here,  owning  a farm  of  eighty 
acres  which  they  operate. 

In  1872  Mr.  Mullen  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Elizabeth  Chrystal,  whose 
birth  occurred  in  Canada  on  the  17th  of  March,  1853,  her  parents  being  John  and 
Jane  Chrystal,  early  settlers  of  De  Kalb  county,  Illinois,  whence  they  came  to 
Chippewa  county.  Both  passed  away  here.  Unto  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mullen  were 
born  four  children,  as  follows:  Eva,  who  is  the  wife  of  Samuel  Kelly,  of  Chip- 
pewa Falls;  Wilmer,  who  lives  in  the  west;  Ray,  who  is  engaged  in  the  operation 
of  the  home  farm  ; and  Grace,  also  at  home.  Mrs.  Mullen,  who  has  lived  in 
Chippewa  county  since  1872  or  for  more  than  four  decades,  enjoys  an  extensive 
acquaintance  here  and  has  witnessed  the  development  of  this  part  of  the  state 
from  pioneer  times  to  the  present. 


JOSEPH  HEBERT. 

Eighteen  years  have  come  and  gone  since  Joseph  Hebert  passed  away  but  he  is 
yet  remembered  by  many  of  his  old  friends,  who  entertained  for  him  warm  regard 
because  of  a well  spent  life.  He  was  born  in  Canada  in  1833,  a son  of  James 
Hebert,  a Canadian  farmer,  whose  entire  life  was  spent  in  that  country.  Joseph 
Hebert  was  one  of  a family  of  fourteen  children.  He  acquired  his  education  in 
Canadian  schools  and  after  mastering  the  branches  of  learning  therein  taught  he 
left  home  when  fourteen  years  of  age  to  make  his  own  way  in  the  world.  He 
could  truly  be  called  a self-made,  for  whatever  success  he  achieved  was  attributable 
entirely  to  his  own  labors,  perseverance  and  capable  management.  When  he 
started  out  for  himself  he  crossed  the  border  into  the  United  States,  thinking  to 
find  better  opportunities  on  this  side  of  the  line.  He  first  settled  in  Massachusetts, 
where  he  remained  for  two  years,  after  which  he  came  to  Wisconsin.  Establish- 
ing his  home  in  Chippewa  county,  he  embarked  in  the  logging  business,  and  as 
success  attended  his  efforts  in  that  direction,  enabling  him  to  save  some  of  his 
earnings,  he  at  length  secured  a sum  sufficient  to  purchase  the  farm  upon  which 
his  family  still  resides.  He  thereafter  carried  on  both  logging  and  farming  until 
his  death  and  as  his  financial  resources  increased  he  added  to  his  property  until 
he  was  the  owner  of  four  hundred  and  forty  acres  of  improved  land,  together 
with  tracts  of  wild  land.  He  erected  most  of  the  buildings  upon  his  place  and  since 
his  death  Mrs.  Hebert  has  made  many  improvements.  The  barns,  sheds  and  other 
outbuildings  are  the  largest  to  be  found  in  his  part  of  the  county  and  the  farm 
is  one  of  the  best  improved  in  this  section  of  the  state.  It  is  an  indication  of 
the  enterprising  spirit  of  both  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hebert.  He  was  also  the  owner 
of  property  in  Chippewa  Falls  and  he  was  everywhere  known  as  an  active,  ener- 
getic business  man  of  sound  judgment  and  keen  discrimination.  He  never  faltered 
in  wdiat  he  undertook  and  his  indefatigable  energy  constituted  the  basis  of  his 
success.  He  was  also  one  of  the  pioneers  of  this  section  in  the  logging  business. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


461 


He  started  in  that  business  when  seventeen  years  of  age  and  followed  it  through- 
out his  entire  life  save  for  a period  of  two  years.  His  example  of  persistent  and 
honorable  purpose  is  one  well  worthy  of  emulation. 

Mr.  Hebert  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Mary  Mayer,  a daughter  of  William 
Mayer,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  fifty-six  years  ago, 
settling  in  Tilden,  Wisconsin.  He  followed  farming  but  was  a blacksmith  by 
trade  and  continued  to  conduct  a shop  until  he  died,  having  the  only  one  in  Tilden. 
His  wife  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Susan  Beitweiler  and  she  died  during  the 
early  girlhood  of  Mrs.  Hebert,  who  was  one  of  a family  of  four  children.  Unto 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hebert  were  born  seven  children,  as  follows:  Joseph,  who  wedded 
Miss  Hannah  Latendre;  William,  who  married  Miss  Lillian  Trudelle,  by  whom 
he  has  a daughter,  Margaret  Mary;  Louise;  Marie;  Gilbert;  Charles;  and  Homer. 
The  last  three  named  operate  farms  and  are  well  known  and  enterprising  agricul- 
turists of  the  county. 

Mr.  Hebert  gave  his  political  allegiance  to  the  democratic  party  but  never 
sought  nor  desired  office.  He  was  a member  of  the  Catholic  church  of  Chippewa 
Falls  and  he  was  well  known  among  the  early  settlers  and  later  residents  of  the 
county,  where  an  active  and  useful  life  gained  for  him  the  warm  regard  and 
enduring  friendship  of  many  with  whom  he  came  in  contact. 


CHRIS  SCHNOOR. 

Chris  Schnoor  is  engaged  in  general  farming  on  a tract  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  in  Bloomer  township.  The  farm  is  situated  four  miles  northwest  of 
the  village  of  Bloomer  and  in  its  care  and  cultivation  Mr.  Schnoor  finds  exercise 
for  his  dominant  qualities  of  industry  and  determination.  He  is  a native  of  Ger- 
many, having  been  born  in  the  fatherland  sixty-five  years  ago.  His  father,  John 
Schnoor,  never  came  to  the  United  States  and  after  spending  his  life  as  a laborer 
passed  away  in  his  native  land.  He  married  Lena  Reice  and  they  were  the  parents 
of  seven  children. 

The  educational  opportunities  which  Chris  Schnoor  enjoyed  were  those  offered 
by  the  public  schools  of  Germany.  He  worked  as  a farm  hand  in  his  native  land 
until  he  came  to  the  Lffiited  States  in  early  manhood  in  1865.  He  at  once  made 
his  way  to  Wisconsin  locating  first  in  Dane  county,  Avhere  he  secured  employment 
as  a farm  hand.  For  forty  years,  however,  he  has  lived  in  Chippewa  county  and 
for  about  thirty-six  years  has  occupied  his  present  farm.  He  was  one  of  the 
first  settlers  in  his  section  of  the  county  and  he  cleared  all  of  his  land,  transform- 
ing the  wild  tract  into  rich  fields  which  annually  yield  him  golden  harvests.  He 
erected  all  of  the  farm  buildings  upon  his  place,  building  his  barn  twenty-three 
years  ago.  He  has  added  many  modern  improvements  and  he  utilizes  improved 
farm  machinery  in  cultivating  his  fields.  He  also  engages  in  dairying,  keeping 
a number  of  cows  for  that  purpose  and  the  products  of  his  dairy  like  those  of 
the  fields  find  a ready  sale  on  the  market. 

Mr.  Schnoor  was  married  in  Wisconsin  to  Miss  Pherena  Ge’nring  and  they  have 
become  the  parents  of  ten  children  who  are  yet  living,  while  two  have  passed  away. 
Those  who  still  survive  are:  Annie,  Lena,  Dave,  Rena,  Otto,  Lucinda,  Alvin, 


462 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Walter,  Eizzie  and  Ella.  The  sons  now  operate  the  farm  largely  relieving  the 
father  from  the  arduous  cares  incident  to  cultivating  the  fields,  yet  to  his  business 
he  gives  personal  supervision.  That  he  is  a man  of  sound  business  judgment  is 
evidenced  in  the  success  which  has  come  to  him  for  his  energy  and  perseverance 
have  made  him  one  of  the  substantial  agriculturists  of  his  section  of  the  county. 

Politically  he  is  independent,  voting  as  his  judgment  dictates  and  according 
to  the  leads  of  the  times.  His  religious  faith  is  that  of  the  German  Lutheran 
church.  His  life  has  been  characterized  by  many  sterling  qualities  and  as  a man 
and  citizen  he  enjoys  the  good-will  and  confidence  of  all  who  know  him. 


CHRIS  HOLTER. 

Chris  Holter  lives  two  miles  east  of  North  Auburn  on  a farm  of  one  hun- 
dred and  sixty  acres  and  in  addition  to  cultivating  this  property  engages  also  in 
the  produce  business,  his  success  in  this  field  placing  him  among  the  representa- 
tive and  able  business  men  jn  this  part  of  the  state.  He  is  a native  of  Norway, 
born  in  1873,  a son  of  Sever  Holter,  who  came  to  the  United  States  and  located 
in  Duluth,  Wisconsin,  where  he  engaged  in  business  for  a number  of  years. 
He  is  now  living  in  retirement  west  of  New  Auburn.  He  married  Miss  Carrie 
Everson  and  they  became  the  parents  of  five  children,  all  of  whom  survive. 

Chris  Holter  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming,  an  occupation 
with  which  he  has  been  to  some  extent  identified  since  that  time.  He  now 
engages  in  general  farming  and  stock-raising  upon  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres 
of  land  in  Bloomer  township,  but  operates  this  property  with  the  aid  of  hired 
help  as  much  of  his  personal  attention  is  given  to  the  conduct  of  his  large  produce 
business.  He  has  a fine  warehouse  in  Bloomer  and  controls  an  important  and 
growing  trade  as  his  business  methods  are  always  straightforward  and  honor- 
able and  his  goods  high  class. 

Mr.  Holter  married  Miss  Signe  Peterson  and  they  have  five  children  : Clin- 
ton, William,  Eveline,  Stanley  and  Cecil.  Mr.  Holter  is  a member  of  the  Nor- 
wegian Lutheran  church  and  is  independent  in  his  political  views.  Both  in  agri- 
cultural and  business  circles  he  is  well  known  and  highly  respected  as  a man  of 
unwavering  integrity  and  excellent  standards. 


CASPER  LARSON. 

A well  known  resident  of  Chippewa  county  is  Casper  Larson.  He  is  con- 
nected with  the  implement  department  of  the  Farmers  Store,  near  Bloomer.  He 
owns  a tract  of  land  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  east  of  Bloomer  and  he  lives 
a busy  life  in  which  he  is  accomplishing  substantial,  results.  Chippewa  county 
numbers  him  among  her  native  sons,  his  birth  having  occurred  on  the  old  family 
homestead  thirty-six  years  ago.  He  was  reared  in  the  usual  manner  of  farmer 
lads,  working  in  the  fields  through  the  summer  months  and  attending  school  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


463 


the  winter  season.  His  public  school  course  was  finished  by  a course  in  Curtis 
College  in  Minnesota  and  thus  he  was  well  prepared  by  a liberal  education  for 
life’s  practical  duties  and  responsibilities.  When  his  college  days  were  over  he 
began  farming  upon  the  old  homestead  and  purchased  the  interests  of  the  other 
heirs  in  the  property.  He  now  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  rich  and 
valuable  land  not  far  from  Bloomer  and  his  place  is  splendidly  improved.  His 
buildings  are  excellent  and  everything  about  the  place  is  kept  in  good  repair. 
There  is  a substantial  and  commodious  residence  with  good  barns  and  sheds  and 
the  farm  indicates  the  progressive  spirit  of  the  owner.  Mr.  Larson  left  the  farm 
in  1912  to  become  an  employe  in  the  implement  department  of  the  Farmers 
Store  so  that  he  is  now  devoting  his  attention  to  commercial  pursuits,  in  which 
he  is  proving  equally  successful. 

Mr.  Larson  was  married  in  1904  to  Miss  Anna  Johnson  who  died  in  1909 
leaving  a daughter,  Mildred,  who  is  now  six  years  of  age.  Mr.  Larson  votes 
with  the  republican  party  and  is  an  interested  student  of  political  conditions. 
He  filled  the  office  of  town  clerk  for  three  years  and  made  an  excellent  record  in 
that  position.  Loyalty  has  ever  been  one  of  his  marked  characteristics  and  he 
is  faithful  to  every  duty  that  devolves  upon  him.  He  is  well  known  in  the  sec- 
tion of  the  county  in  which  he  lives  and  his  popularity  is  recognized  by  all  who 
meet  him  in  a social  or  business  way. 


CHRIST  NELSON. 

Since  1868  Christ  Nelson  has  been  a resident  of  Tilden  township  and  he  has 
seen  the  section  develop  from  a wilderness  into  a populous  and  wealthy  farming 
community.  He  has  borne  an  active  and  honorable  part  in  the  work  of  upbuild- 
ing, for  since  1870  he  has  owned  a fine  tract  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres 
lying  three  and  a half  miles  south  of  Bloomer,  and  he  has  during  the  course  of 
years  made  many  substantial  contributions  to  general  agricultural  development. 

Christ  Nelson  was  born  in  Norway  in  1851  and  spent  his  childhood  and  early 
youth  in  his  native  country.  In  1868  he  emigrated  to  America  and  after  his 
arrival  came  directly  to  Chippewa  county,  settling  in  Bloomer  and  working  in 
the  woods  in  the  vicinity  of  the  city  for  a number  of  years  thereafter.  By 
the  exercise  of  thrift  and  economy  he  saved  enough  money  to  purchase  land  of 
his  own  and  in  1870  bought  a one  hundred  and  twenty  acre  tract  in  Tilden  town- 
ship. The  land  lies  three  and  a half  miles  south  of  Bloomer  and  here  Mr. 
Nelson  has  since  steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  development  and  improve- 
ment along  practical  lines.  He  has  erected  a comfortable  residence  and  good 
farm  buildings  and  has  installed  the  necessary  machinery,  neglecting  nothing 
which  would  add  to  the  appearance  or  value  of  his  place.  He  engaged  in  gen- 
eral farming,  operating  the  property  himself  until  about  seven  years  ago,  when  he 
retired  from  active  life,  leaving  the  work  of  the  fields  to  a hired  manager.  He 
still  resides  upon  his  homestead,  where  he  has  lived  for  forty-three  years,  each 
year  witnessing  an  increase  in  his  prosperity  and  prominence.  He  is  one  of  the 
few  who  have  so  long  witnessed  the  growth  and  development  of  this  part  of 
Chippewa  county,  for  Tilden  township  at  the  time  of  his  arrival  was  a tract  of 


464 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


dense  timber  land,  covered  with  black  pine  trees,  and  Indians  were  the  most 
numerous  inhabitants.  During  the  years  he  has  resided  here  Mr.  Nelson  has 
made  substantial  contributions  to  general  growth  and  development  and  in  the 
course  of  a long,  active  and  honorable  life  has  gained  the  esteem  and  regard  of 
his  neighbors  and  friends. 


GUSTAV  WEIHER. 

Gustav  Weiher,  who  operates  the  Jacob  Meier  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  in  Bloomer  township  and  who  owns  ninety-four  acres  north  of 
Bloomer,  was  born  in  Germany  in  1858  and  is  a son  of  Fred  Weiher,  a laborer 
in  that  country,  who  never  came  to  America.  The  son  acquired  his  education 
in  the  public  schools  of  Germany  and  in  1885  came  to  the  United  States,  set- 
tling in  Milwaukee,  where  he  remained  for  one  summer.  At  the  end  of  that  time 
he  moved  to  Whitewater,  spending  nine  years  there,  and  he  then  came  to  Chip- 
pewa county  and  purchased  ninety-four  acres  in  Bloomer  township,  which  he  has 
since  owned.  When  this  came  into  his  possession  it  was  a tract  of  wild  land,  but 
he  has  since  cleared  thirty  acres  and  erected  an  excellent  set  of  buildings.  Mr. 
Weiher  does  not  live  upon  this  property  although  he  operates  it,  for  six  years 
ago  he  assumed  the  management  of  the  Jacob  Meier  property,  upon  which  he 
carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying.  Being  a progressive  and  practical  agri- 
culturist, his  efforts  have  been  rewarded  by  a gratifying  degree  of  success. 

Mr.  Weiher  married  Miss  Matilda  Burger,  a native  of  Germany,  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  seven  children,  Otto,  Minnie,  Lena,  Fred,  Willie, 
Robert  and  Emma.  Mr.  Weiher  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican 
party,  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America  and  holds 
membership  in  the  German  Lutheran  church.  The  success  which  has  attended 
his  labors  entitles  him  to  recognition  among  the  prosperous,  enterprising  and 
representative  citizens  of  the  community  and  his  many  sterling  traits  of  char- 
acter have  won  him  the  warm  friendship  and  regard  of  those  with  whom  he  has 
come  in  contact. 


ROBERT  D.  C.  MORAY.  M.  D. 

Dr.  Robert  D.  C.  Moray,  who  has  practiced  medicine  and  surgery  in  Cornell 
since  the  3d  of  April,  1913,  came  to  this  county  on  that  date  from  Manawa,  Wis- 
consin. His  birth  occurred  at  Brockville,  Ontario,  Canada,  on  the  12th  of  Novem- 
ber, 1875,  his  parents  being  Robert  and  Isabella  (Campbell)  Moray,  the  former 
a descendant  of  a United  Empire  Loyalist  family  and  the  latter  of  Scotch  origin. 
Robert  Moray,  who  was  a farmer  by  occupation,  passed  away  in  1889  and  was 
buried  in  the  county  of  Leeds,  Ontario,  near  Brockville.  The  demise  of  his  wife 
occurred  in  1875,  when  their  son  Robert  was  but  two  weeks  old.  Her  remains 
were  interred  in  the  Brockville  cemetery. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


467 


Robert  D.  C.  Moray  acquired  his  primary  education  in  the  public  schools  of 
his  native  town  and  afterward  attended  the  Brockville  Collegiate  Institute,  from 
which  he  was  graduated  in  June,  1892.  Subsequently  he  learned  the  trade  of 
draftsman  and  machinist  and  followed  that  occupation  for  nine  years.  Having 
determined  upon  the  practice  of  medicine  as  a life  work,  he  then  entered  Mil- 
waukee Medical  College  and  in  1905  won  the  degree  of  M.  D.  In  that  year  he 
opened  an  office  in  Manawa,  Wisconsin,  which  place  remained  the  scene  of  his 
professional  labors  until  April,  1913,  when  he  came  to  Cornell.  His  practice  is 
already  large  and  lucrative,  having  steadily  grown  as  he  has  demonstrated  his 
skill  and  ability  in  coping  with  the  intricate  problems  which  continually  confront 
the  physician  in  his  efforts  to  restore  health  and  prolong  life.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Wisconsin  State  Medical  Society  and  the  American  Medical  Association 
and  thus  keeps  in  touch  with  the  progress  which  is  being  continually  made  by  the 
profession. 

On  the  28th  of  August,  1907,  in  Milwaukee,  Wisconsin,  Dr.  Moray  was  united 
in  marriage  to  Miss  Flora  S.  Menish,  her  parents  being  Neil  and  Elizabeth  Men- 
ish,  both  of  whom  are  deceased  and  buried  in  Milwaukee.  In  politics  Dr.  Moray 
is  a republican  and  his  fraternal  relations  are  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows  and  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  His  support  is  given  to  all 
progressive  measures  and  his  aid  can  always  be  counted  upon  to  further  those 
interests  which  are  of  genuine  worth  to  the  community. 


FRED  W.  THOMPSON. 

Modern  farming  methods  find  their  exemplification  in  the  life  work  of  Fred 
W.  Thompson,  who  is  cultivating  the  old  homestead  farm  of  one  hundred  and 
sixty  acres  in  Auburn  township.  He  was  born  in  Osseo,  Wisconsin,  in  1885,  and 
is  a son  of  Walter  Thompson,  who  was  a native  of  England  and  came  to  the  United 
States  when  twenty  years  of  age.  He  made  his  way  to  Eau  Claire,  where  he 
engaged  in  the  flour  milling  business  but  after  some  identification  with  commer- 
cial pursuits  he  turned  his  attention  to  agriculture  and  took  up  his  abode  upon 
what  is  now  known  as  the  old  Walter  Thompson  homestead  in  Auburn  township. 
There  he  continued  to  till  the  fields  and  care  for  his  crops  until  his  sons  were  old 
enough  to  relieve  him  of  the  cultivation  and  management  of  the  farm,  since  which 
time  he  has  assumed  active  connection  with  the  milling  business,  which  he  now 
follows  on  the  Pacific  coast.  He  married  Miss  Hilda  Nelson,  of  Chippewa  county, 
who  was  born  in  Norway  but  came  to  the  United  States  when  a little  maiden  of 
eight  years.  In  their  family  -were  seven  children:  Frank,  who  is  engaged  in 

farming  in  Running  Valley ; Fred  W. ; Bert,  who  is  credit  man  for  the  Fairbanks- 
Morse  Company;  Harry,  who  is  traffic  manager  for  the  Northwestern  Steel  & 
Iron  Works,  at  Eau  Claire;  Grace,  at  home;  Sibyl,  wdio  is  attending  the  high 
school,  of  Eau  Claire ; and  Willis. 

Like  the  others  of  the  family,  Fred  W.  Thompson  was  accorded  good  educa- 
tional privileges,  which  he  improved,  mastering  the  branches  of  learning  taught 
in  the  grade  and  high  schools  of  Bloomer.  He  has  always  made  farming  his  life 
work,  thus  continuing  in  the  pursuit  to  which  he  was  reared  and  now  operates  the 

Vo  I IT— 2". 


468 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


old  homestead  farm,  which  he  devotes  to  the  cultivation  of  cereals  and  dairying. 
He  has  erected  a commodious  and  attractive  modern  residence,  which  is  one  of 
the  hue  homes  of  the  county  and  in  the  conduct  of  the  farm  he  utilizes  modern 
methods  and  displays  an  enterprising  spirit  that  conquers  difficulties  and  pushes 
forward  to  success.  He  is  determined  and  energetic  and  has  made  wise  use  of 
his  time  and  opportunities  as  the  years  have  gone  by. 

The  republican  party  counts  Mr.  Thompson  as  one  of  its  stalwart  supporters 
who  has  exercised  his  right  of  franchise  in  behalf  of  its  candidates  since  attaining 
his  majority.  He  holds  membership  in  the  Presbyterian  church  of  Sand  Creek 
and  this  association  indicates  much  of  the  rules  which  govern  his  conduct  and 
shape  his  career.  He  is  widely  known  in  Chippewa  county  and  his  many  sterling- 
traits  of  character  have  made  his  circle  of  friends  almost  a coextensive  one  with 
the  circle  of  his  acquaintances. 


CHARLES  SCHROEDER. 

Bloomer  township  is  a rich  agricultural  district  and  within  its  borders  reside 
many  progressive  farmers  who  recognize  their  opportunities  and  through  the 
improvement  of  the  advantages  which  are  theirs  are  winning  substantial  success. 
To  this  class  belongs  Charles  Schroeder  whose  attractive  and  excellent  farm  of  one 
hundred  and  fifty-seven  acres  is  situated  six  miles  northwest  of  the  village  of 
Bloomer.  He  has  been  a life  long  resident  of  Wisconsin,  his  birth  having  occurred 
in  Waukesha  county  about  a mile  from  the  city  of  Waukesha.  For  fifty-four 
years,  however,  he  has  been  a resident  of  Chippewa  county,  having  arrived  here 
November  i,  1859.  He  was  then  but  a little  child,  his  birth  having  occurred  on 
the  5th  of  October,  1858.  His  father,  Charles  Schroeder,  was  a native  of  Germany 
and  on  coming  to  the  United  States  at  the  age  of  twenty-eight  years,  made  his 
way  to  Wisconsin.  He  was  employed  in  a mill  for  ten  years  and  on  the  expiration 
of  that  period  took  up  his  abode  on  a farm  at  Eagle  Point  three  miles  north  of 
Chippewa  Falls,  there  following  general  agricultural  pursuits  throughout  his 
remaining  days.  He  died  in  1882,  falling  into  a well,  which  occasioned  his  demise. 
He  was  well  known  as  one  of  the  early  settlers  here  and  as  a man  of  sterling 
worth.  His  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Mary  Charlotta  Krieg,  was  born 
in  Leipsig,  Germany,  and  lived  in  Waukesha  county,  Wisconsin,  at  the  time  of 
her  marriage.  Her  death,  resulting  from  pleurisy,  occurred  February  22,  1910. 
They  had  two  children,  but  the  elder  son,  Herman  was  drowned  in  the  Chippewa 
river  June  29,  1873,  when  only  sixteen  years  of  age. 

Charles  Schroeder,  reared  in  this  county,  is  indebted  to  the  public-school  system 
for  the  educational  opportunities  which  he  enjoyed.  He  early  became  familiar 
with  all  branches  of  farm  work  and  after  leaving  school  his  entire  time  was  devoted 
to  the  labors  of  the  fields.  He  was  twenty-one  years  of  age  when  he  took  up  his 
abode  upon  his  present  farm  and  he  is  known  as  one  of  the  oldest  settlers  in  his 
part  of  the  county.  He  cleared  all  of  the  land  which  was  covered  with  timber 
and  stumps  when  he  took  possession. 

It  required  much  arduous  toil  to  convert  the  wild  tract  into  productive  fields, 
but  he  never  hesitated  and  his  diligence  and  industry  at  length  brought  their 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


469 


reward.  He  has  one  of  the  best  improved  farms  in  his  part  of  the  county.  The 
buildings  are  commodious,  modern  and  substantial  and  the  barns  and  sheds  furnish 
ample  shelter  for  grain  and  stock.  He  uses  the  latest  improved  machinery  with 
which  to  plant,  cultivate  and  care  for  his  crops  and  he  also  engages  in  stock-raising, 
in  dairying  and  in  selling  wood,  having  hauled  wood  for  thirty  years.  He  has 
just  completed  a new  barn  thirty-six  by  sixty-six  feet,  all  made  from  timber  cut 
on  the  place  and  from  rock  and  sand  secured  from  the  sand  pit  on  his  farm. 

Mr.  Schroeder  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Bertha  Heidtke,  a daughter  of 
August  Heidtke  and  they  have  one  son,  Walter,  who  was  born  May  27,  1885,  and 
now  assists  his  father  in  carrying  on  the  home  farm.  Mr.  Schroeder  votes  with 
the  democratic  party  but  does  not  seek  nor  desire  office,  preferring  to  concentrate 
his  energy  on  his  business  affairs  which  are  important  and  which  class  him  with 
the  representative  agriculturists  of  his  district.  In  business  matters  his  judgment 
is  sound  and  his  energy  unfaltering  and  the  years  have  brought  him  a good  return 
for  his  labor. 


WILLIAM  SUMM  ER  FI  ELD. 


William  Summerfield  owns  and  cultivates  an  excellent  farm  01  two  hundred 
acres  about  six  miles  northwest  of  Bloomer.  It  is  such  men  as  Mr.  Summerfield 
who  have  won  for  Chippewa  county  her  enviable  reputation  as  an  agricultural 
district.  The  natural  beauty  of  the  landscape  is  heightened  by  the  well  cultivated 
farms,  thrifty  orchards  and  pastures  containing  high-grade  stock.  Modern  equip- 
ments are  found  upon  the  home  place  of  Mr.  Summerfield  who  is  an  energetic 
agriculturist,  carrying  on  his  work  according  to  the  most  modern  methods.  Chip- 
pewa county  is  deeply  indebted  to  Germany  for  a large  percentage  of  her  enter- 
prising citizens,  among  whom  is  the  subject  of  this  review.  He  was  born  in 
Germany  fifty-three  years  ago  and  is  a son  of  Christ  Summerfield,  who  on  crossing 
the  Atlantic  to  the  United  States  with  his  family  made  his  way  to  Green  Lake 
county,  Wisconsin,  where  he  established  his  home.  Later  he  removed  to  Chippewa 
county  settling  near  Bloomer  but  eventually  sold  his  property  there  and  took  up 
his  abode  on  the  farm  which  is  now  the  home  of  his  son,  William.  The  place  was 
then  covered  with  a dense  growth  of  timber  and  with  the  aid  of  his  son,  William, 
he  began  cutting  away  the  trees,  grubbing  up  the  stumps  and  preparing  the  land 
for  the  plow.  He  continued  to  reside  upon  the  farm  throughout  his  remaining 
days,  his  death  occurring  in  the  spring  of  1913  when  he  was  eighty-five  years  of 
age.  He  was  married  in  Germany  and  had  two  children  who  are  yet  living,  the 
younger,  being  Mrs.  William  Luck. 

In  taking  up  the  history  of  William  Summerfield  we  present  to  our  readers 
the  life  record  of  one  who  has  long  resided  in  this  county  and  who  is  widely 
and  favorably  known.  His  youthful  days  were  largely  devoted  to  the  acquirement 
of  an  education  in  the  public  schools  and  he  then  started  out  in  life  on  his  own 
account,  working  as  a farm  hand  by  the  month.  He  was  ambitious,  however,  to 
engage  in  business  for  himself  and  began  to  cultivate  farms  which  he  leased  until 
he  was  able  to  purchase  his  present  place.  Lie  carefully  saved  his  earnings,  living 
economically  and  frugally  and  he  now  owns  two  hundred  acres  of  land  which  is 


470 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


rich  and  productive  and  responds  readily  to  the  care  and  labor  he  has  bestowed 
upon  it.  He  has  made  many  substantial  improvements  including  the  introduction 
of  modern  machinery  to  facilitate  the  work  of  the  fields.  He  carries  on  a dairy 
business  in  connection  with  general  farming  and  both  branches  are  bringing  him  a 
gratifying  financial  return. 

Mr.  Summerfield  married  Miss  Tena  Drega  and  they  have  four  children, 
Martha,  Ida,  Annie  and  Otto.  The  parents  hold  membership  in  the  German 
Lutheran  church  of  Bloomer  and  are  faithful  to  its  teachings.  Mr.  Summerfield 
gives  his  political  support  to  the  republican  party  and.  is  in  thorough  sympathy 
with  its  principles  and  purposes,  but  does  not  seek  nor  desire  office,  preferring  to 
concentrate  his  energy  upon  his  business  affairs  which  are  capably  managed  and 
which  have  gained  him  recognition  as  a representative  farmer  of  his  township. 


P.  B.  OLSON. 

Wisconsin  offers  excellent  opportunities  to  the  farmer.  Her  land  is  rich  and 
responds  readily  to  the  care  and  cultivation  bestowed  upon  it.  To  the  work  of 
tilling  the  soil,  Mr.  Olson  gives  his  attention  and  his  energy  and  careful  manage- 
ment are  rewarded  with  good  crops  so  that  he  has  become  known  as  one  of  the 
representative  farmers  of  his  district. 

He  lives  eleven  miles  northwest  of  Bloomer  on  a farm  of  one  hundred  and 
twenty  acres.  Norway  numbers  him  among  her  native  sons,  his  birth  having 
occurred  in  that  country  fifty-nine  years  ago.  His  father  was  Ole  Olson,  who 
came  to  the  United  States  when  in  middle  life.  Wisconsin  was  his  destination, 
as  it  has  been  that  of  many  another  representative  of  the  land  of  the  midnight 
sun.  He  worked  in  Eau  Claire  for  many  years  and  died  in  that  city  at  the  ripe 
old  age  of  eighty-four  years.  His  wife  bore  the  maiden  name  of  Carrie  Petersen 
and  unto  their  marriage  were  born  six  children. 

P.  B.  Olson  spent  his  youthful  days  in  Norway  and  pursued  his  education 
in  the  public  schools.  When  his  text-books  were  put  aside,  he  turned  to  the  new 
world,  as  a more  favorable  place  in  which  to  earn  a living.  He  completed  arrange- 
ments to  cross  the  Atlantic  and  after  landing  on  the  American  shores,  he  made 
his  way  to  Eau  Claire  where  he  was  employed  in  a sawmill.  He  then  removed 
to  a place  east  of  his  present  home  and  after  farming  there  for  some  time,  sold 
the  property  and  nine  years  ago,  came  to  his  present  farm,  which  he  has  brought 
to  a high  state  of  cultivation.  He  has  made  many  improvements  including  the 
erection  of  some  of  the  buildings  upon  the  place  and  he  carries  on  general  farming 
and  stock-raising.  His  interests  are  carefully  managed  and  his  enterprising 
methods  and  unfaltering  industry  constitute  the  foundation  of  his  substantial  and 
well  merited  success. 

Mr.  Olson  married  Miss  Emma  Gustavson,  a native  of  Norway,  and  they 
have  become  the  parents  of  four  children : Charles,  who  is  living  in  Montana ; 

George  who  is  associated  with  his  father  in  the  operation  of  the  farm ; Hilma;  and 
Mabel. 

Mr.  Olson  is  a republican,  but  does  not  seek  nor  desire  office.  He  prefers  to 
give  his  undivided  attention  to  his  business  affairs  and  whatever  success  he  has 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


471 


achieved,  is  the  direct  return  and  reward  of  his  own  labors.  He  has  ever  been 
a diligent  and  industrious  farmer  and  deserves  mention  among  the  representative 
citizens  of  Auburn  township. 


ALFRED  PETSKA. 

Among  the  younger  men  of  Chippewa  county  who  have  attained  gratifying 
success  in  the  conduct  of  their  farming  and  stock-raising  interests,  is  numbered 
Alfred  Petska,  living  eight  and  one-half  miles  east  of  Bloomer  on  a farm  of  one 
hundred  and  sixty  acres.  This  constitutes  a portion  of  the  family  homestead  of 
which  his  two  brothers,  Charles  and  Ernest,  also  own  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres. 

Alfred  Petska  was  born  upon  this  farm  in  1885  and  is  a sou  of  Frank  Petska. 
He  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools,  dividing  his  time  in  his  childhood 
between  his  studies  and  work  in  the  operation  of  the  homestead.  After  leaving 
school  he  began  farming  the  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  which  he  now  owns 
and  through  his  well  directed  efforts  and  untiring  energy  has  made  it  a very 
valuable  property.  The  father  erected  the  buildings  but  Mr.  Petska  of  this  review 
has  made  other  important  improvements  and  has  steadily  carried  forward  the 
work  of  cultivation  and  development.  He  engages  in  general  farming  and  dairy- 
ing and  has  met  with  most  desirable  success  in  both  branches. 

Mr.  Petska  is  independent  in  his  political  views  and  is  a member  of  the  Pres- 
byterian church  as  is  also  his  brother  Ernest  who  operates  another  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  of  the  homestead.  Ernest  Petska  was  born  in  1883  and  acquired 
his  education  in  the  public  schools.  On  the  12th  of  August,  1913,  Alfred  Petska 
married  Miss  Lena  Schwaf,  a daughter  of  John  Schwaf,  and  both  are  well  known 
in  their  locality.  The  Petska  brothers  are  numbered  among  the  most  progressive 
and  successful  agriculturists  of  this  part  of  the  county  and  hold  the  esteem  and 
respect  of  their  neighbors  and  friends. 


OSCAR  GARTON. 

Oscar  Garton,  engaging  in  general  farming  upon  two  hundred  and  three  acres 
lying  on  section  32,  township  28,  Chippewa  county,  a property  upon  which  he  has 
resided  for  about  thirty  years,  was  born  in  Jefferson  county,  this  state,  November 
25,  1855.  He  is  a son  of  Andrew  and  Katherine  (Green)  Garton,  who  now  reside 
in  Santa  Cruz,  California. 

Oscar  Garton  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  at  the  age  of  seventeen,  assisted  his  father  for 
about  three  years.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Chippewa  county,  where 
he  spent  two  years  as  a farm  laborer,  after  which  he  learned  the  blacksmith’s 
trade,  following  it  for  three  years.  He  then  began  farming  independently,  buying 
two  hundred  and  three  acres  of  excellent  land  on  section  32,  township  28,  and 
upon  this  property  he  has  since  resided.  Through  the  years  he  has  steadily  carried 
forward  the  work  of  improvement  and  development  and  has  now  about  one 


472 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


hundred  and  eighty  acres  under  cultivation,  specializing  in  the  raising  of  grain. 
He  is  numbered  among  the  representative  and  able  agriculturists  of  this  locality, 
for  his  labors  have  always  been  practical  and  well  directed  and  have  resulted  in 
his  attaining  a very  creditable  degree  of  success. 

In  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  in  1878,  Mr.  Garton  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Ella  Smith,  a daughter  of  Jeremiah  and  Esther  (Horton)  Smith,  both  of 
whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  Eau  Claire.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Garton 
have  become  the  parents  of  ten  children : William,  who  is  engaged  in  farming 

in  Chippewa  county ; George,  who  is  assisting  his  brother  William  ; Burt  and 
Charles  D.,  residents  of  Elk  Mound ; Roy,  who  makes  his  home  in  Menominie ; 
David,  who  is  assisting  his  father;  Pearl;  Myrtle;  McKinley  and  Dewey,  school 
students. 

Mr.  Garton  is  a republican  in  his  political  views  and  has  been  for  several  years 
past  chairman  of  the  Elk  Mound  town  council.  A resident  of  this  county  since 
1876,  he  has  become  widely  and  favorably  known  here  and  his  contributions  to 
general  agricultural  development  have  been  many  and  substantial. 


I.  L.  FREEBORN. 

I.  L.  Freeborn  is  engaged  in  general  farming  in  Auburn  township,  his  home 
being  pleasantly  and  conveniently  located  about  ten  and  a half  miles  northwest 
of  Bloomer.  The  farm  comprises  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  rich  and  arable 
land  and  in  its  cultivation  and  improvement  the  owner  is  meeting  with  good  success. 
A4r.  Freeborn  is  a native  of  Wisconsin,  his  birth  having  occurred  in  Rock  county 
in  1857.  His  father,  D.  P.  Freeborn,  was  a native  of  Pennsylvania  and  devoted 
his  life  to  general  agricultural  pursuits.  For  many  years  he  lived  in  Rock  county 
and  his  last  days  were  spent  in  Milton,  Wisconsin,  where  he  passed  away  at  the 
age  of  eighty  years.  He  was  married  in  Rock  county  to  Amy  Ann  Burdick  and 
they  became  the  parents  of  two  children,  the  elder  being  O.  P.  Freeborn,  who  is 
still  a resident  of  Rock  county. 

I.  L.  Freeborn,  the  younger  son,  was  reared  under  the  parental  roof  and  is 
indebted  to  the  public  school  system  for  the  educational  opportunities  which  he 
enjoyed.  When  he  started  out  in  the  business  world  he  turned  his  attention  to 
farming  which  he  followed  in  Rock  county.  Later  he  spent  six  years  in  Dakota 
and  then  returned  to  Rock  county  where  he  remained  for  eight  years.  Five  years 
ago  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  and  for  three  years  has  lived  upon  his  present 
farm  in  Auburn  township.  There  are  good  buildings  upon  the  place  and  the  farm 
is  well  improved  according  to  the  modern  methods  of  the  twentieth  century.  Mr. 
Freeborn  carefully  tills  his  fields,  raising  such  crops  as  are  best  adapted  to  the 
soil  and  climatic  conditions  here.  Dairying  is  also  an  important  feature  of  his 
business  and  the  products  of  his  dairy  find  ready  sale. 

Mr.  Freeborn  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Nellie  Fox,  a native  of  Adams 
county,  Wisconsin,  and  they  have  become  the  parents  of  three  children;  Clayton, 
who  is  married  and  lives  in  Rock  county;  Frank  I.,  who  makes  his  home  in  Penn- 
sylvania ; and  Victor  D.,  who  assists  in  the  cultivation  of  the  home  farm. 

Mr.  Freeborn  holds  membership  in  the  Seventh  Day  Baptist  church  and  he 
gives  his  political  assistance  to  the  republican  party.  He  started  out  in  life  with 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


473 


the  determination  to  win  success  if  it  could  be  accomplished  through  persistent, 
honorable  effort.  He  recognized  the  fact  that  there  is  no  royal  road  to  wealth  and 
that  he  must  follow  the  path  of  earnest  endeavor  if  he  would  advance.  He  has 
accomplished  what  he  has  undertaken  and  has  steadily  worked  his  way  upward, 
his  labors  bringing  him  substantial  and  well  merited  reward. 


ANDREW  MULLEN. 

Andrew  Mullen,  engaging  in  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  eighty  acres 
of  fine  land  in  Tilden  township,  was  born  in  Norway  in  1879.  He  acquired  his 
education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  country  and  there  remained  until 
1901,  when  he  crossed  the  Atlantic  to  America.  He  settled  immediately  in  Chippewa 
county  and  here  worked  as  a farm  laborer,  first  in  the  employ  of  his  brother  Math 
and  then  for  four  years  under  Samuel  Nelson.  About  the  year  1909  he  purchased 
an  eighty  acre  tract  of  land  in  Tilden  township  and  upon  this  property  he  has 
since  resided,  engaged  in  general  farming  and  dairying.  His  interests  are  today 
important  and  his  success  rewards  earnest,  well  directed  and  practical  labor. 

Mr.  Mullen  married  Miss  Bertha  Omberg,  and  they  have  become  the  parents 
of  three  children,  Helmer,  Helen  and  Melvin.  Mr.  Mullen  is  a member  of  the 
Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican 
party.  His  life  has  been  one  of  well  directed  activity,  resulting  in  the  attainment 
of  a fair  measure  of  success,  and  wherever  he  is  known  he  is  honored  and  esteemed 
by  reason  of  his  genuine  personal  worth. 


MATHIAS  LEINENKUGEL. 

As  secretary  of  the  Leinenkugel  Brewing  Company  Mathias  Leinenkugel  is 
well  known  in  Chippewa  Falls.  He  was  born  in  Sauk  City,  Wisconsin,  April 
16,  1866.  With  the  removal  of  the  family  to  Chippewa  Falls  he  pursued  his 
education  in  the  parochial  and  public  schools  here  to  the  age  of  sixteen  years. 
He  afterward  spent  a year  in  a drug  store  and  then  came  to  his  father's  brewery, 
in  which  he  acquainted  himself  with  the  various  phases  of  the  business  and  worked 
steadily  upward  from  one  position  to  another  of  greater  responsibility.  The  brew- 
ery was  incorporated  in  1898,  at  which  time  he  became  secretary,  and  so  continued 
to  the  present,  becoming  an  active  factor  in  the  successful  management  of  a growing 
business. 

In  Chippewa  Falls,  on  the  rSrh  of  June,  1889,  Mr.  Leinenkugel  married  Miss 
Catherine  Watzel,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  John  Watzel,  who  were  natives  of 
Germany  and  are  now  deceased.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Leinenkugel  have  become  the 
parents  of  three  children.  Josephine,  the  eldest,  is  the  wife  of  John  J.  Black,  a 
resident  of  Durand,  Wisconsin,  where  he  is  engaged  in  the  general  wholesale  and 
fur  business.  They  have  one  child,  John  M.  Jacob,  the  second  member  of  the 
family,  is  a student  in  the  law  department  of  the  Wisconsin  State  LTniversity. 
Carl,  the  youngest,  is  attending  school  in  Chippewa  Falls. 


474 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


In  politics  Mr.  Leinenkugel  is  a democrat  but  has  never  cared  for  nor  sought 
public  office,  preferring  to  concentrate  his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs.  lie 
belongs  to  the  St.  Charles  Catholic  church,  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin,  the 
Catholic  Order  of  Foresters,  the  German  Benevolent  Society  and  the  United  Com- 
mercial Travelers.  He  is  a man  of  generous  spirit,  giving  liberally  to  those  in 
need,  and  he  has  many  friends  among  the  German  American  citizens  of  this  county. 


A.  J.  TURNER. 

The  agricultural  interests  of  Eagle  Point  township  find  a worthy  representative 
in  A.  J.  Turner,  who  owns  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  of  rich  and  productive 
land  at  Eagleton.  He  was  born  upon  the  old  homestead  farm,  in  1880,  and  it  has 
always  been  his  place  of  residence.  He  is  a son  of  Gottlieb  Turner,  at  one  time 
a well  known  agriculturist  of  this  section.  At  the  usual  age  the  son  began  his 
education  in  the  public  schools,  and  when  he  had  finished  his  studies  he  took  up 
the  work  of  the  farm,  which  he  followed  on  the  old  home  place  until  he  removed 
to  his  present  home  seven  years  ago.  He  also  conducts  a hotel  and  feed  barn 
and  all  the  branches  of  his  business  are  proving  profitable  He  has  substantial 
buildings  upon  his  land  and  he  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying,  keeping 
a number  of  high-grade  cows  for  dairy  purposes.  His  fields  present  a neat  and 
well  kept  appearance  and  everything  about  the  place  indicates  his  progressive 
spirit  and  enterprising  methods. 

Mr.  Turner  married  Miss  Jessie  Jones,  a daughter  of  Dell  Jones.  They  now 
have  three  children ; Clarence,  Lillian  and  Dorothy.  Mr.  Turner  votes  independ- 
ently and  has  never  been  an  aspirant  for  office,  yet  he  does  not  neglect  the  duties 
of  citizenship  and  is  interested  in  all  that  pertains  to  the  public  welfare.  He  holds 
membership  in  the  Lutheran  church  of  Bloomer  and  is  widely  and  favorably 
known  in  the  section  of  the  county  in  which  his  entire  life  has  been  passed. 


W.  G.  WAUGH. 

General  farming  and  dairying  command  the  attention  of  W.  G.  Waugh  who 
is  the  owner  of  a fine  property  of  eighty  acres  lying  nine  miles  north  of  Bloomer, 
a farm  upon  which  he  has  resided  for  the  past  ten  years.  He  was  born  in  Colum- 
bia county,  this  state,  in  i860,  a son  of  Edward  A.  Waugh,  a native  of  England. 
The  father  emigrated  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  eighteen  years  of  age,  and 
located  in  Columbia  county  where  he  engaged  in  farming  until  his  death.  He 
married  Miss  Catherine  Curry  and  they  became  the  parents  of  three  children. 

W.  G.  Waugh  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  his  native  sec- 
tion and  when  not  engaged  with  his  books  aided  his  father  in  the  operation  of 
the  homestead.  When  he  began  his  independent  career  he  naturally  turned  his 
attention  to  the  occupation  to  which  he  had  been  reared,  following  agricultural 
pursuits  in  various  localities  until  1898  when  he  came  to  Chippewa  county  where 
he  has  since  resided.  For  the  past  ten  years  he  has  made  his  home  upon  his 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


475 


present  farm  and  he  has  steadily  carried  forward  the  work  of  improvement, 
erecting  all  of  the  buildings,  installing  the  necessary  machinery  and  neglecting 
nothing  which  would  add  to  its  appearance  or  value. 

In  Columbia  county  Mr.  Waugh  married  Miss  Anna  Porter  and  they  have 
become  the  parents  of  seven  children : Mary,  Blanche,  Lottie,  Vera,  Archie, 
John  and  Dora.'  Mr.  Waugh  is  connected  fraternally  with  the  Order  of  Beavers 
and  is  a member  of  the  Congregational  church.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance 
to  the  republican  party  and  was  for  eight  terms  township  treasurer,  discharging 
the  duties  of  that  office  to  the  satisfaction  of  all  concerned.  He  has  proved  a 
capable  official,  a farsighted  business  man  and  a progressive  citizen  and  he  holds 
the  esteem  and  confidence  of  all  who  are  in  any  way  connected  with  him. 


GILBERT  OLSON. 

Gilbert  Olson  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  upon  a fine  property 
of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres  ten  and  one  half  miles  northwest  of  Bloomer  and 
is  numbered  among  the  progressive  and  responsible  agriculturists  of  Auburn  town- 
ship. He  was  born  in  Norway  in  1857  and  acquired  his  education  in  the  public 
schools  of  that  country.  When  he  was  twenty-two  years  of  age  he  emigrated  to 
America  settling  immediately  in  Eau  Claire,  Wisconsin,  where  for  three  years  he 
worked  in  a sawmill.  At  the  end  of  that  time  he  moved  to  Sand  Creek  and  engaged 
in  farming  for  a short  time  moving  in  1899  to  Marshall  county,  South  Dakota, 
where  he  remained  for  thirteen  years.  In  1909  he  purchased  land  in  Chippewa 
county  and  in  1912  took  up  his  residence  upon  it.  Here  he  has  since  carried  on 
general  farming  and  dairying  and  his  well  directed  efforts  have  been  rewarded  by 
a substantial  measure  of  success. 

Mr.  Olson  married  Miss  Lena  Larson,  a native  of  Norway,  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  the  following  children;  Clara,  who  married  Samuel  Brusen ; Jessie, 
who  lives  in  Montana ; Carl ; Edward,  Laura  and  Oscar.  Mr.  Olson  gives  his 
political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian 
Lutheran  church  of  Sand  Creek.  He  is  a resident  of  Auburn  township  and  has  been 
loyal  in  his  undertaking  of  everything  pertaining  to  the  general  welfare  and  has 
made  some  substantial  contributions  to  development  and  progress. 


PERCY  GORTON. 

Percy  Gorton,  one  of  the  substantial  and  progressive  young  agriculturists  of 
Chippewa  county,  residing  at  Gorton's  Mill,  twelve  and  a half  miles  northeast 
of  Bloomer,  and  owning  a well  improved  farm  of  one  hundred  and  sixty  acres, 
is  also  the  owner  of  a saw,  feed,  lathe  and  shingle  mill,  which  is  one  of  the  old 
mills  of  the  section.  He  is  numbered  among  the  worthy  native  sons  of  this  county, 
his  birth  having  occurred  at  Bloomer  in  1886.  His  father,  Lorentine  Gorton, 
removed  from  New  York,  his  native  state,  to  Menominie,  Dunn  county,  Wisconsin, 
and  subsequently  took  up  his  abode  in  Eau  Claire.  Thence  he  went  to  Chippewa 


476 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Falls  and  afterward  came  to  Bloomer,  where  he  is  now  living  retired  in  the  home 
of  our  subject.  He  is  a millwright  by  trade  and  followed  that  occupation  through- 
out his  active  business  career.  Both  he  and  his  wife,  who  bore  the  maiden  name 
of  Louise  Wire,  are  well  known  in  the  community  and  have  many  friends  here. 

Percy  Gorton  attended  the  schools  of  his  home  neighborhood  in  the  acquire- 
ment of  an  education  and  after  putting  aside  his  text-books  turned  his  attention 
to  general  agricultural  pursuits,  beginning  the  operation  of  a farm  of  one  hundred 
and  sixty  acres  in  Bloomer  township,  which  has  since  remained  in  his  possession. 
He  likewise  conducts  a saw,  feed,  lathe  and  shingle  mill  which  is  the  largest  in 
the  locality  and  which  has  been  there  for  twenty-two  years.  In  both  his  farming 
and  milling  interests  he  has  won  a measure  of  success  that  entities  him,  to  recog- 
nition among  the  representative  and  enterprising  citizens  of  his  native  county. 
He  erected  the  new  barn  which  stands  on  the  property,  but  all  of  the  other  buildings 
were  constructed  by  his  father. 

As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Gorton  chose  Miss 
Irens  Shipman,  by  whom  he  has  two  children:  Elmer,  a little  lad  of  three  years; 
and  Edgar,  who  is  one  year  old.  In  his  political  views  Mr.  Gorton  is  independent, 
supporting  men  and  measures  rather  than  party.  He  and  his  wife  are  among  the 
popular  young  people  of  the  community  and  well  merit  the  regard  and  esteem 
accorded  them. 


G.  N.  AMBLE. 

G.  N.  Amble,  a progressive  and  successful  farmer  of  Auburn  township,  owning 
and  operating  three  hundred  and  fifty  acres  of  land  ten  miles  southeast  of  Bloomer, 
was  born  in  Minnesota  in  1862,  a son  of  Nels  Olson,  a native  of  Norway.  He 
acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county  and  after  laying 
aside  his  books  turned  his  attention  to  farming  buying  three  hundred  and  fifty 
acres  in  Auburn  township.  Llpon  this  property  he  has  since  resided  carrying  on 
general  farming  and  dairying  and  he  has  made  extensive  improvements  upon  it, 
erecting  substantial  buildings  and  installing  the  necessary  equipment. 

Mr.  Amble  married  Miss  Hannah  Wikre  and  both  are  well  known  throughout 
the  township.  Mr.  Amble  votes  independently  and  for  two  years  served  as  town- 
ship assessor  proving  a capable  and  conscientious  public  official.  He  is  a member 
of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  is  recognized  as  a man  of  sterling  character 
holding  the  esteem  of  all  who  are  associated  with  him. 


OSCAR  A.  JOHNSON. 

Oscar  A.  Johnson,  engaged  in  the  creamery  business  in  Bloomer,  being  the 
butter  maker  with  the  Farmers  Creamery  Company,  was  born  in  the  town  of 
Tilden  in  1890,  a son  of  John  Johnson.  His  education  was  acquired  in  the  district 
schools  of  the  county  and  in  the  Bloomer  high  school  until  1909,  when  he  went 
to  Madison  and  through  the  succeeding  two  years  pursued  a course  in  dairying 


Px\ST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


477 


in  the  State  University  there.  This  brought  him  broad  practical  as  well  as  scien- 
tific training  and  when  his  education  was  completed  he  secured  a position  as  butter 
maker  in  Eau  Claire.  He  afterward  went  to  Greenwood,  where  he  was  employed 
in  a similar  capacity  and  next  to  Beaver  Dam,  whence  he  came  to  Bloomer.  He 
has  since  remained  in  this  town,  doing  excellent  work  as  butter  maker  with  the 
Farmers  Creamery  Company.  In  the  spring  of  1914  he  expects  to  locate  upon  a 
farm  and  take  possession  of  one  hundred  and  eighty  acres,  which  he  owns.  He 
will  then  carry  on  the  dairy  business,  for  which  his  experience  in  butter  making 
has  well  qualified  him,  bringing  him  a knowledge  of  the  requirements  of  dairying. 
He  knows  what  will  best  produce  butter  fat,  has  studied  the  question  of  feeding 
cattle  and  with  his  knowledge  and  skill  will  undoubtedly  win  success  in  his  new 
work. 

Mr.  Johnson  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Hazel  O.  Knowles,  a daughter  of 
James  Knowles,  and  they  have  one  son,  Clayton  Edward.  In  politics  Mr.  Johnson 
is  a republican  having  continuously  supported  the  party  since  age  conferred  upon 
him  the  right  of  franchise.  He  is  a trustee  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church 
and  is  interested  in  the  moral  progress,  as  well  as  the  material  development  of 
the  community.  Since  starting  out  in  life  for  himself  his  industry  and  enterprise 
have  constituted  the  source  of  his  advancement  and  recognizing  the  fact  that  “there 
is  no  royal  road  to  wealth,”  he  puts  forth  earnest  persistent  effort  in  order  to  reach 
the  goal  of  his  ambition. 


FRANK  S.  GRUBB. 

Not  only  is  Frank  S.  Grubb  one  of  the  prosperous  merchants  of  Stanley,  Chip- 
pewa county,  but  he  is  also  a substantial  real-estate  holder  and  a man  who  has 
actively  participated  in  the  public  life  of  his  community,  serving  at  present  as  mayor 
of  the  city.  He  has  done  equally  important  work  along  educational  lines,  being 
in  various  parts  of  the  state  engaged  as  teacher  and  also  having  acted  as  a county 
school  superintendent.  Born  in  Sauk  county,  near  Baraboo,  Wisconsin,  on  Feb- 
ruary 4,  1864,  he  is  a son  of  Phillip  P.  and  Bena  JRumpf)  Grubb,  the  former 
born  in  Germany  in  1824  and  the  latter  in  the  same  country  in  1829.  The  father 
came  to  America,  settling  in  Sauk  county  when  but  nineteen  years  old,  and  during 
all  his  active  life  followed  agricultural  pursuits  successfully.  He  died  in  1881. 
The  mother  removed  from  Germany  to  Pittsburg,  Pennsylvania,  at  the  age  of 
seventeen  and  subsequently  became  a resident  of  Sauk  county,  where  she  passed 
away  in  1905. 

Frank  S.  Grubb  is  one  of  nine  children  born  to  his  parents.  He  was  educated 
in  the  public  schools  of  Baraboo,  Wisconsin,  until  seventeen  years  old  and  then 
became  a teacher  in  the  schools  of  that  city,  so  continuing  for  two  years.  Afterward 
he  entered  the  University  of  Wisconsin  at  Madison,  from  which  he  graduated  in 
1887.  He  then  accepted  the  principalship  of  the  high  school  at  Clintonville,  Wis- 
consin, remaining  there  for  one  year,  and  then  became  principal  at  Weyauwega, 
where  for  two  and  a half  years  he  filled  that  position.  For  six  years  he  was  county 
superintendent  of  Waupaca  county.  Coming  to  Stanley  in  1897,  he  built  the  first 
feed  and  gristmill  here  but  after  five  years  entered  the  mercantile  business, 


478 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


having  conducted  an  establishment  of  this  kind  ever  since  with  increasing  success. 
His  store  is  well  appointed  and  he  carries  only  the  best  class  of  goods.  As  the 
years  have  passed  prosperity  has  come  to  him  and  he  now  not  only  owns  his  valuable 
store  and  residence  but  also  the  theater  and  postoffice  buildings  in  Stanley,  beside 
two  other  residences. 

Mr.  Grubb  was  married  on  December  24,  1890,  at  Weyauwega,  to  Miss  Laura 
Bauer,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William  Bauer,  of  that  city.  The  father  during 
all  his  active  life  was  a painter  and  decorator  and  died  in  1909  at  the  age  of  sixty- 
eight  years.  The  mother  yet  lives  in  Weyauwega.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Grubb  have 
four  children  : Walter,  Margaret,  Rena  and  Arthur. 

Mr.  Grubb  is  a republican  in  his  political  views.  In  1910  he  was  elected  mayor 
of  Stanley  and  discharged  his  duties  in  such  an  able  manner  that  in  1912  he 
was  reelected  to  the  office,  continuing  to  give  the  city  a beneficent,  businesslike 
administration.  For  two  years  he  was  supervisor  of  Chippewa  county  and  for 
three  years  he  served  as  a member  of  the  board  of  education  of  Stanley.  As 
mentioned  before,  he  served  for  six  years  as  county  superintendent  of  schools 
of  Waupaca  county,  doing  valuable  work  in  promoting  the  cause  of  education  in 
that  section.  He  is  also  secretary  of  the  Inter-County  Fair  Association  at  Stanley. 
Among  his  other  interests  he  is  a stockholder  and  director  in  the  Citizens  State 
Bank  and  is  well  known  in  fraternal  circles,  belonging  to  the  Masons  and  the 
Modern  Woodmen  of  America.  .Both  he  and  his  wife  are  Presbyterians,  ever 
giving  their  active  and  helpful  support  to  the  work  of  that  church.  There  is 
much  that  is  commendable  in  the  career  of  Mr.  Grubb,  who  not  only  has  devoted 
himself  to  attain  personal  affluence  but  has  given  much  of  his  time  to  public  work 
and  is  now  doing  valuable  service  in  promoting  the  welfare  of  the  city.  He  enjoys 
in  full  measure  the  confidence  and  esteem  of  his  fellow  citizens,  as  is  evident  from 
his  reelection  to  the  important  office  of  mayor,  and  his  record  thus  far  has  been 
such  as  to  justify  and  merit  that  confidence. 


WILLIAM  GEHL. 


Among  the  prosperous  and  progressive  young  farmers  of  Auburn  township 
who  are  native  sons  of  Chippewa  county  is  William  Gehl,  who  owns  and  ope- 
rates a farm  of  three  hundred  and  thirty-two  acres  six  and  one-half  miles  north- 
west of  Bloomer.  Upon  this  property  he  was  born  in  1885,  being  a son  of  John 
Gehl,  a native  of  Germany,  who  came  to  the  United  States  when  he  was  twenty- 
one  years  of  age.  He  settled  in  Chippewa  county  and  for  a number  of  years 
was  active  in  agricultural  pursuits,  finally  retiring  and  moving  to  Bloomer,  where 
he  still  resides.  He  married  Mrs.  Happl,  a widow,  and  they  became  the  par- 
ents of  five  children:  John,  who  resides  in  Canada;  Minnie,  who  makes  her 

home  in  Iron  River,  Wisconsin;  Fred,  of  Bloomer;  William,  of  this  review; 
and  Edward,  who  resides  in  Bloomer. 

William  Gehl  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa 
county  and  after  laying  aside  his  books  assisted  with  the  operation  of  the  home- 
stead. After  his  father's  retirement  he  purchased  the  property  and  upon  it 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


479 


carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying,  his  progressive  and  practical  methods 
resulting  in  the  attainment  of  a gratifying  measure  of  success. 

Mr.  Gehl  married  Miss  Ida  Martin,  a daughter  of  Jacob  Martin,  and  both 
are  well  known  in  Auburn  township.  Mr.  Gehl  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran 
church  and  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  a man 
of  good  business  ability,  carefully  managing  his  interests  and  winning  the  suc- 
cess which  is  now  his.  An  upright  character  and  sterling  worth  have  gained 
him  a favorable  place  in  the  regard  of  many  friends  and  Auburn  township  num- 
bers him  among  her  valued  citizens. 


ANDREW  PEDERSON. 

Andrew  Pederson,  a prosperous  and  representative  farmer  of  Auburn  town- 
ship, was  born  in  Norway  in  1871.  When  he  was  twelve  years  of  age  he  emigrated 
to  America  and  located  immediately  in  Chippewa  county  where  he  worked  in  the 
lumber  woods  for  several  years.  At  length  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming, 
buying  the  property  upon  which  he  now  resides.  He  owns  two  hundred  and  forty 
acres  of  land,  ten  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer  and  has  made  all  the  improvements 
upon  it,  erecting  the  buildings  and  installing  the  machinery.  He  engages  in  general 
farming  and  is  especially  interested  in  raising  high-grade  sheep.  Being  a practical 
and  progressive  business  man  his  labors  have  been  attended  with  a gratifying 
degree  of  success  and  he  is  now  numbered  among  the  prominent  and  able  agricul- 
turists of  this  locality. 

Mr.  Pederson  married  Miss  Helga  Ludrickson  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  five  children : Emil,  Inga,  Hilga,  Aagot  and  Clara.  The  parents  are 
members  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and  Mr.  Pederson  gives  his  political 
allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  He  is  deeply  interested  in  the  welfare  and 
advancement  of  the  county  where  he  has  resided  since  childhood  and  has  made 
his  individual  success  an  important  factor  in  general  progress. 


CHRIST  CHRISTIANSON. 

For  the  past  twenty-five  years  Christ  Christianson  has  lived  upon  a two  hundred 
acre  farm  eight  miles  southwest  of  Bloomer  and  by  his  well  directed  efforts  in 
its  cultivation  has  attained  a gratifying  measure  of  success.  He  was  born  in 
Norway  in  1850  and  as  a young  man  emigrated  to  America  settling  in  Chippewa 
county  where  he  has  since  resided.  For  the  past  quarter  of  a century  he  has  lived 
upon  his  present  farm  in  Auburn  township  and  is  largely  responsible  for  its  excel- 
lent condition  having  worked  the  soil  and  erected  all  of  the  buildings  with  the 
exception  of  the  house.  He  carries  on  general  farming  and  dairying  and  has  made 
both  branches  of  his  activities  important  and  profitable. 

Mr.  Christianson  married  Miss  Annie  Anderson  and  they  have  become  the 
parents  of  eight  children;  Mila,  deceased;  Inga,  Carl,  Mila,  the  second  of  the 
name ; Gust,  Christina,  Alba  and  Florence.  They  have  also  an  adopted  daughter, 


480 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


Thora.  Mr.  Christianson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  Church  and 
is  a Republican  in  his  political  beliefs.  He  served  for  thirty  years  on  the  school 
board  holding  during  that  time  the  position  of  clerk,  director  and  treasurer. 
Having  resided  in  Chippewa  county  for  over  a quarter  of  a century  he  is  widely 
and  favorably  known  being  regarded  as  a practical  farmer  and  a progressive 
citizen. 


OSCAR  JOHNSON. 

Oscar  Johnson,  operating  a farm  of  two  hundred  and  forty  acres  in  Tiklen 
township  and  numbered  among  the  most  progressive  and  practical  young  agricul- 
turists in  this  locality,  was  born  upon  the  farm  where  he  now  resides  in  1887.  He 
is  a son  of  Hans  Johnson,  a native  of  Norway,  who  came  to  the  United  States 
as  a boy  in  1862,  locating  in  Chippewa  county,  on  the  farm  now  occupied  by  his 
son.  He  followed  agricultural  pursuits  in  this  locality  for  many  years  thereafter, 
dying  upon  his  farm  at  the  age  of  fifty-two.  He  married  Miss  Rena  Loftus,  and 
they  became  the  parents  of  eight  children. 

Oscar  Johnson  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Chippewa  county 
and  after  laying  aside  his  books  operated  the  farm  for  his  father  for  some  time. 
Since  the  latter’s  death  Mr.  Johnson  of  this  review  has  rented  the  homestead 
from  his  mother  and  upon  this  property  carries  on  general  farming  and  stock- 
raising,  meeting  with  a gratifying  and  well  deserved  success. 

Mr.  Johnson  is  a republican  in  his  political  beliefs  and  a devout  member  of 
the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church.  He  is  a practical  farmer  and  an  enterprising 
and  progressive  business  man  and,  although  still  a young  man,  has  already  attained 
a creditable  place  in  agricultural  circles  of  his  native  county. 


L.  P.  STEVENS. 

L.  P.  Stevens,  a well  known  and  successful  agriculturist  of  Bloomer  township, 
owns  and  operates  the  Highland  Stock  Farm,  comprising  one  hundred  and  twenty 
acres  of  land  eight  miles  northeast  of  Bloomer.  His  birth  occurred  in  Dunn  county, 
Wisconsin,  in  the  year  1866.  His  father,  J.  L.  Stevens,  was  a native  of  New 
York  and  came  to  this  state  in  early  manhood,  locating  in  Dunn  county.  He  fol- 
lowed farming  throughout  his  active  business  career  and  spent  his  last  days  in 
honorable  retirement  at  Bloomer. 

L.  P.  Stevens  acquired  his  education  in  the  schools  of  Pepin  county  and  sub- 
sequently worked  at  various  occupations  until  he  came  to  Chippewa  county,  Wis- 
consin. He  was  afterward  engaged  in  the  saloon  business  in  both  Bloomer  and 
Stanley  and  went  from  the  latter  place  to  the  farm  which  he  now  operates.  The 
property  is  known  as  the  Highland  Stock  Farm  and  in  its  conduct  Mr.  Stevens 
has  won  well  merited  success,  carrying  on  general  farming  and  stock-raising  in 
accordance  with  modern  and  progressive  ideas.  He  has  made  all  of  the  improve- 
ments on  the  place  and  is  widely  recognized  as  an  enterprising,  prosperous  and 
representative  agriculturist  of  his  community. 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


481 


As  a companion  and  helpmate  on  the  journey  of  life  Mr.  Stevens  chose  Miss 
Lillian  Gunn,  by  whom  he  has  three  children,  namely : Richard,  Forrest  and 

Verna.  He  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party  and  has  fraternal 
relations  with  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows. 


J.  E.  JOHNSON. 

A fine  property  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-two  acres  lying  ten  miles  southwest 
of  Bloomer  in  Auburn  township,  pays  tribute  to  the  care  and  supervision  of  J.  E. 
Johnson  who  for  a number  of  years  has  lived  upon  it  and  who  is  entirely  responsible 
for  its  present  attractive  appearance  and  flourishing  condition.  He  was  born  in 
Norway  in  1863,  the  only  son  of  Andrew  and  Antoinette  (Olson)  Johnson,  also 
natives  of  that  country.  After  the  father  emigrated  to  America  he  settled  in 
Marinette  county,  this  state,  where  he  engaged  in  the  sawmilling  business.  He 
came  to  Chippewa  county  in  1878  and  here  he  turned  his  attention  to  agricultural 
pursuits,  buying  the  farm  now  owned  by  the  subject  of  this  review,  and  making 
his  home  thereon  until  his  death  which  occurred  in  1909  when  he  was  seventy- 
eight  years  of  age. 

J.  E.  Johnson  was  six  years  of  age  when  he  accompanied  his  parents  to  America 
and  he  acquired  his  education  in  the  public  schools  of  Marinette  and  Chippewa 
counties.  After  laying  aside  his  books  he  turned  his  attention  to  farming  and 
for  a number  of  years  past  has  owned  the  family  homestead  which  he  now  operates. 
His  father  erected  most  of  the  buildings  upon  the  place,  but  Mr.  Johnson  of  this 
review  has  made  substantial  improvements,  has  kept  everything  about  the  farm 
in  good  repair  and  has  neglected  nothing  which  will  add  to  its  appearance  or  value. 

Mr.  Johnson  married  Miss  Mary  Anderson,  and  they  became  the  parents  of 
eight  children : Mrs.  Anna  Ludwick,  Olga,  Laura,  Albert,  Edward,  Helga,  Harold 
and  Gearhart.  Mr.  Johnson  is  a member  of  the  Norwegian  Lutheran  church  and 
he  gives  his  political  allegiance  to  the  republican  party.  Throughout  his  life  he 
has  worked  earnestly  and  persistently  to  attain  success  and  is  now  numbered  among 
the  substantial  and  progressive  agriculturists  of  his  township. 


MARTIN  RASMUS. 

Martin  Rasmus  is  prominently  and  actively  connected  with  business  interests 
of  Bloomer  as  president  and  principal  stockholder  of  the  Bloomer  Electric  Light 
& Power  Company.  He  lives  upon  a farm  of  one  hundred  and  twenty  acres  in 
Bloomer  township  and  has  made  this  property  his  home  since  the  early  '70s,  his 
contributions  to  agricultural  development  since  that  time  having  been  many  and 
substantial.  He  was  born  in  Norway  in  1853  and  came  to  the  LTnited  States  in 
1869,  settling  immediately  in  Bloomer.  Here  he  first  engaged  as  a common  laborer 
and  afterward  worked  at  farming  and  lumbering  for  several  years.  In  the  early 
’70s  he  purchased  one  hundred  and  -twenty  acres  in  Bloomer  township  and  this 
property  he  cleared  of  the  dense  growth  of  brush  and  timber  and  upon  it  has 


482 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


since  resided.  He  has  erected  a comfortable  residence,  good  barns  and  outbuild- 
ings and  has  made  other  substantial  improvements,  carrying  on  general  farming 
and  dairying. 

In  addition  to  his  agricultural  interests  Mr.  Rasmus  is  also  well  known  in 
business  affairs  in  Bloomer  and  for  a long  time  has  been  recognized  in  that  city 
as  a man  of  great  business  ability  and  foresight.  For  twenty-two  years  he  was  a 
partner  of  Ole  Christianson  in  the  conduct  of  a large  elevator  and  he  is  now  chief 
stockholder  and  president  of  the  Bloomer  Electric  Light  & Power  Company. 
This  plant  was  started  by  Oscar  Anderson,  of  Colfax,  and  was  operated  for  a time 
under  the  name  of  Anderson  & Pierce.  It  afterward  became  Rasmus  & Chris- 
tianson and  so  continued  until  Mr.  Rasmus  purchased  all  but  two  hundred  dollars’ 
worth  of  the  stock  and  became  president  of  the  concern.  Since  assuming  control  he 
has  purchased  a mill  at  Eagle  Point  and  has  run  a line  from  there  to  Bloomer. 
About  three  years  ago  he  built  an  electric  line  from  Eagle  Point  to  Chippewa 
Falls  and  now  buys  current  from  the  Chippewa  Valley  Railway  Light  & Power 
Company.  He  has  about  thirty  miles  of  wire  in  Bloomer  and  his  own  house  is 
wired  for  electricity  for  both  lighting  and  cooking  purposes.  Mr.  Rasmus  owns 
fifty-five  acres  of  land,  a water  power  and  a gristmill  near  Eagle  Point  and  also 
has  a half  interest  in  a farm  known  as  the  Rasmus  Brothers’  farm  near  Chippewa 
Falls,  consisting  of  three  hundred  and  thirteen  acres,  and  he  owns  eight  hundred 
acres  of  timber  land  in  Douglas  county,  Oregon,  with  about  forty  million  feet  of 
timber  upon  it. 

In  1873  Mir.  Rasmus  was  united  in  marriage  to  Miss  Annie  Fikji,  who  died 
in  1906.  To  them  were  born  twelve  children,  four  of  whom  still  survive,  as  fol- 
lows: Mrs.  Amelia  Fulker,  Herman,  Edward  and  Oleana.  In  1907  Mr.  Rasmus 
was  again  married,  his  second  wife  being  Miss  Marie  Amant,  and  they  became 
the  parents  of  two  children,  Albert  and  Alasia. 

Mr.  Rasmus  is  a member  of  the  Lutheran  church  and  is  connected  fraternally 
with  the  Modern  Woodmen  of  America,  the  Scandinavian  lodge  and  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  Politically  he  is  a republican  but  has  never  sought 
local  offices,  preferring  to  concentrate  his  energies  upon  his  business  affairs,  which, 
being  capably  conducted,  are  bringing  him  richly  merited  success. 


JOHN  A.  MORRIS. 


The  undertaking  establishment  of  John  A.  Morris  takes  a foremost  place 
among  such  institutions  in  Chippewa  Falls.  However,  Mr.  Morris  has  not  only 
exerted  himself  to  promote  his  own  interests  but  has  done  much  to  benefit  the 
general  welfare  and  at  present  serves  as  president  of  the  city  council.  He 
conducts  his  establishment  at  No.  305  North  Bridge  street  where  he  keeps  in 
stock  all  accessories  that  are  needed  in  his  business.  Mr.  Morris  has  been  a 
resident  of  Chippewa  county  since  May,  1873,  coving  a period  of  over  forty  years. 
At  that  time  he  came  from  Milford,  Massachusetts,  where  he  was  born  on 
June  15,  1859,  a son  of  Patrick  and  Ann  (Boyle)  Morris.  The  father  died  in 
Chippewa  Falls  in  1902  and  is  buried  here.  He  was  prominent  in  the  county, 
holding  many  important  offices,  and  enjoyed  the  confidence  of  the  public  in  a 


JOHN  A.  MORRIS 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


485 


! large  measure.  His  death  caused  widespread  regret  and  his  memory  is  still 
held  in  veneration  by  many  of  his  old-time  friends.  Mrs.  Patrick  Morris,  who 
is  seventy-six  years  of  age,  resides  with  her  son  John  and  is  still  remarkably 
active  for  one  of  her  years.  She  became  the  mother  of  nine  children,  as  fol- 
lows: Penelope,  the  wife  of  J.  J.  Thornton,  a street  car  conductor  of  Chippewa 
Falls;  John  A.,  of  this  review;  Thomas  F.,  who  resides  in  Idaho;  Mary  E.,  who 
married  J.  B.  Mathews,  a wholesale  grocer  of  Ashland,  Wisconsin;  Anna  B., 
a milliner  of  Chippewa  Falls;  Michael  B.,  engaged  in  the  lumber  business  at 
Iron  River,  this  state;  Frank  F.,  an  electrician  for  the  Great  Northern  Railroad 
at  Portland,  Oregon;  Luke  J.,  a druggist  of  Virginia,  Minnesota;  and  Charles 
F.,  who  is  prominent  as  a lawyer  at  Iron  River,  this  state. 

John  A.  Morris  attended  school  in  Chippewa  Falls  until  fifteen  years  of 
age  and  in  the  next  year  began  teaching,  in  which  occupation  he  continued  for  a 
period  of  three  years.  He  then  turned  his  attention  to  the  mercantile  field, 
clerking  for  about  five  years  for  the  Glucksman  Mercantile  Company,  and  then 
established  himself  with  E.  H.  Coleman  in  the  furniture  and  undertaking  busi- 
ness, this  partnership  continuing  for  four  years.  Mr.  Morris  subsequently  be- 
came sole  owner  of  the  business,  which  grew  in  a gratifying  manner  and  made 
him  one  of  the  substantial  merchants  of  the  city.  In  1888,  however,  he  sold  the 
furniture  business  but  still  conducts  the  undertaking  establishment.  He  thor- 
oughly understands  the  details  of  the  business  and  carries  a complete  and  well 
selected  line  of  goods.  As  the  years  have  passed  he  has  gained  a high  reputation 
for  honest,  straightforward  methods  and  reliability.  Among  other  interests 
Mr.  Morris  is  connected  with  the  Chippewa  Building  & Loan  Association,  having 
served  as  secretary  of  this  institution  for  eleven  years. 

In  Fox  Lake,  Wisconsin,  in  1883,  Mr.  Morris  was  united  in  marriage  to 
Miss  Anna  Bowe,  a daughter  of  Jeremiah  and  Ann  (McGuire)  Bowe,  both  of 
I . whom  have  passed  away  and  are  buried  in  the  cemetery  at  Fox  Lake.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Morris  had  one  daughter,  Helen,  at  home.  In  1891  Mr.  Morris  married, 
in  Chippewa  Falls,  Miss  Agnes  L.  Church,  a daughter  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  William 
Church,  both  deceased  and  buried  in  this  city. 

In  his  political  affiliations  Mr.  Morris  is  a democrat  and  always  gives  his 
stalwart  support  to  measures  and  candidates  of  this  party.  He  has  taken  a 
laudable  interest  in  local  affairs,  serving  at  the  present  time  in  the  important 
position  of  president  of  the  council,  with  which  governing  body  he  has  been 
connected  for  twelve  years,  doing  most  valuable  work  and  giving  evidence  of  his 
deep  interest  in  all  matters  that  affect  civic  welfare  and  civic  improvement. 
His  interest  in  the  cause  of  education  is  manifest  from  the  fact  that  he  served 
for  four  years  on  the  school  board.  He  has  also  held  the  office  of  county 
supervisor  for  twelve  years,  doing  valuable  work  in  this  connection.  He  is  a 
member  of  the  Northwestern  State  Fair,  which  organization  has  done  much  to 
promote  agricultural  and  other  interests  in  Chippewa  county.  Along  profes- 
sional lines  he  is  president  of  the  Wisconsin  Funeral  Directors  and  Embalmers 
Association.  His  religion  is  that  of  the  Catholic  church.  Fraternally  he  is  a 
member  of  the  Knights  of  Columbus,  of  which  he  is  grand  knight  and  holds  the 
fourth  degree,  and  the  Catholic  Knights  of  Wisconsin,  as  well  as  the  Catholic 
Order  of  Foresters,  the  Knights  of  Honor  and  the  Maccabees.  For  forty  years 
a resident  of  Chippewa  Falls,  his  private  interests  and  those  of  a general  nature 

Vol.  U-2  6 


486 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


have  become  closely  allied  and  lie  has  not  only  achieved  success  for  himself  but 
has  been  a forceful  factor  in  bringing  about  the  advancement  which  the  city 
and  county  now  enjoy.  It  is  interesting  to  note  that  one  member  of  his  family, 
an  uncle,  was  a resident  of  Chippewa  Falls  as  early  as  1854,  when  he  engaged 
here  successfully  in  the  lumber  business,  passing  away  in  this  city  in  1872.  Mr. 
Morris  is  one  of  the  foremost  citizens  of  Chippewa  Falls,  as  is  evident  from  the 
important  position  which  he  occupies  in  public  life,  and  is  the  recipient  of  the 
highest  regard  and  esteem  of  his  fellow-citizens. 


RALPH  Id.  ANDERSON. 

Ralph  Id.  Anderson  is  manager  of  the  real-estate  department  of  the  North- 
western Lumber  Company.  For  a long  period  he  has  been  connected  with  this 
corporation  and  has  gradually  worked  his  way  upward  until  he  was  given  charge 
of  the  land  holdings  of  the  company  and  controls  its  business  in  this  connection 
at  Stanley. 


HENRY  J.  GODDARD. 

Henry  J.  Goddard  is  filling  the  office  of  postmaster  at  Chippewa  Falls  for  the 
fourth  term  and  his  record  in  public  office  is  a most  creditable  one.  He  has  filled 
various  positions  and  no  trust  reposed  in  him  has  ever  been  betrayed  in  the  slightest 
degree.  His  high  standing  among  those  occupying  similar  positions  is  indicated 
in  the  fact  that  in  September,  1912,  at  Madison,  he  was  elected  president  of  the 
Wisconsin  Association  of  Postmasters. 

Mr.  Goddard  was  born  November  3,  1844,  in  Almond,  Allegany  county,  New 
York,  his  parents  being  Nathaniel  and  Lucinda  Goddard.  Following  the  removal 
of  the  family  to  the  west  he  pursued  his  education  in  Beloit  and  supplemented 
his  high-school  studies  by  a full  course  in  Bryant  & Stratton’s  business  college. 
Mr.  Goddard  has  an  interesting  military  record.  He  enlisted  as  hospital  steward  in 
the  regular  army  during  the  Civil  war  and  was  on  duty  at  Fortress  Monroe,  Vir- 
ginia; Hampton,  Virginia,  and  at  Richmond  and  Fredericksburg.  He  was  trans- 
ferred to  Washington,  D.  C.,  by  order  of  Surgeon  General  Barns,  to  assist  in 
compiling  the  medical  and  surgical  history  of  the  war  which  work  was  conducted 
in  Ford’s  theater,  where  the  lamented  President  Lincoln  was  assassinated  by 
Wilkes  Booth.  After  leaving  the  capital  city  he  was  employed  by  Dr.  B.  F.  Mills 
in  connection  with  the  drug  business  and  in  October,  1874,  came  to  Chippewa  Falls, 
where  he  purchased  a drug  store  owned  by  Charles  Hinkley.  He  was  for  a quarter 
of  a century  active  in  the  commercial  circles  of  the  city  as  proprietor  of  that  store, 
but  sold  out  in  September,  1899.  In  the  meantime  he  had  been  called  to  several 
public  offices,  his  fellow  townsmen  recognizing  his  worth  and  ability.  It  was  in 
1878  that  he  was  chosen  city  treasurer  and  in  1885  he  was  elected  a member 
of  the  state  legislature  for  a two-year  term.  While  in  the  assembly  he  served 
as  chairman  of  the  railroad  committee  and  was  at  all  times  actively  interested  in 


PAST  AND  PRESENT  OF  CHIPPEWA  COUNTY 


487 


matters  relating  to  the  public  welfare,  giving  his  indorsement  to  various  plans 
which  he  deemed  of  essential  value  to  the  commonwealth.  His  first  appointment 
to  the  position  of  postmaster  of  Chippewa  Falls  came  from  President  McKinley 
on  the  31st  of  March,  1900.  He  was  reappointed  by  President  Roosevelt,  April 
27,  1904,  again  by  Roosevelt,  April  9,  1908,  and  is  now  serving  under  appointment 
of  William  H.  Taft,  who  named  him  for  the  position  on  the  17th  of  April,  1912. 
His  present  incumbency,  therefore,  will  complete  sixteen  years’  service  in  this 
position.  He  has  discharged  his  public  duties  with  the  same  sense  of  loyalty  and 
fidelity  which  marked  the  career  of  his  private  business  interests  when  he  was  con- 
nected with  the  commercial  life  of  Chippewa  Falls.  In  addition  to  his  duties  as 
postmaster  Mr.  Goddard  h^s  other  business  connections.  He  is  one  of  the  trustees 
of  the  Chippewa  Falls  Budding  & Loan  Association  and  has  been  president  of 
the  Chippewa  Falls  Cemetery  Association  for  many  years. 

On  the  22d  of  June,  1871,  Mr.  Goddard  was  married  in  Lima,  New  York,  to 
Miss  J.  Adelle  Grover,  a daughter  of  Levi  P.  and  Elvira  M.  Grover.  Her  father 
passed  away  in  the  year  1882  and  the  mother  is  now  living  at  the  ripe  old  age  of 
eighty-four  years.  Mrs.  Goddard,  a woman  of  lovable  character,  passed  away 
at  Chippewa  Falls,  April  8,  1900.  Mr.  Goddard  has  a family  of  two  children : 
Arthur  Grover;  and  Jennie  E.,  the  latter  the  wife  of  John  Brooks,  resident  man- 
ager of  the  Chippewa  Sugar  Company.  Air.  and  Airs.  Brooks  have  a beautiful 
little  daughter,  Mary  Adelle,  now  three  and  a half  years  of  age. 

In  politics  Air.  Goddard  has  always  been  a consistent  republican  since  age  con- 
ferred upon  him  the  right  of  franchise.  He  is  now  a member  of  the  Progressive 
League  and  one  of  its  trustees.  He  is  identified  with  a number  of  fraternal  organ- 
izations, holding  membership  in  Chippewa  Falls”  Lodge  No.  176,  F.  & A.  M. ; 
Chippewa  Chapter  No.  46,  R.  A.  AT. ; Tancred  Commandery  No.  27,  K.  T. ; and 
Wisconsin  Consistory  No.  1,  S.  P.  R.  S.  Of  the  blue  lodge  chapter  and  com- 
mandery he  is  treasurer.  He  likewise  has  membership  with  the  Nobles  of  Trip- 
oli Temple  of  the  Alystic  Shrine  of  Wisconsin;  of  Chippewa  Falls  K.  P.  and  in 
T877  was  a member  of  the  grand  lodge.  He  is  very  prominent  in  grand  army 
circles  and  was  chief  of  staff  of  the  department  commander  of  Wisconsin  for 
about  six  years.  He  has  been  commander  of  James  Cormerford  Post  G.  A.  R.  and 
its  quartermaster  for  the  past  twelve  years.  He  never  ceases  to  feel  deeply  in- 
terested in  the  welfare  of  his  fellow  comrades  in  arms  and  for  ten  years  has  been 
president  of  the  Chippewa  County  Soldiers’  Relief  Association.  For  twenty 
years  or  more  he  has  served  on  the  school  board  and  the  cause  of  education  indeed 
finds  in  him  a stalwart  champion,  whose  labors  in  its  behalf  are  most  effective. 
His  wife  held  membership  in  the  Presbyterian  church  and  her  many  good  quali- 
ties of  heart  and  mind  had  endeared  her  to  a large  circle  of  friends.  Mr.  God- 
dard is  justly  accounted  one  of  the  prominent  representative  and  valued  citizens 
of  the  community,  well  deserving  prominent  mention  in  the  history  of  Chippewa 
county. 


INDEX 


Acheson,  J.  G 

Ainsworth,  E.  L. . . 
Albert,  Gustave . . . 
Albrecht,  Charles . . 
Albright,  August . . 
Aldworth,  George . . 

Althans,  C.  F 

Amble,  A.  1ST 

Amble,  G.  N 

Amundson.  Carl . . . 
Amundson,  Charles 
Anderson,  Alfred.  . 
Anderson.  Carl .... 
Anderson,  R.  H..  . . 
Andrejeski,  J.  M. . . 
Anglum.  John 

Babbitt.  F.  C 

Babbitt,  J.  A 

Bailey,  M.  S 

Bareume,  Joseph.  . 

Barker,  C.  P 

Bartz,  A.  C.  F 

Bateman,  A.  P. ... 
Beaulieu,  Peter.  . . . 

Beeston,  G.  E 

Beier,  A.  L 

Bekken,  Oscar .... 
Benish,  Andrew.  . . 

Benish,  J.  B 

Benneseh,  John 

Bennett,  R.  G 

Berg.  A.  M 

Berg,  M.  M 

Bestrup,  George... 

Bethke,  L.  W 

Bible.  F.  0 

Biekerstaff,  R.  W. . 

Bjerke,  John 

Bjornstad,  0.  E.. . . 

Boie,  G.  W 

Bowe,  Lenard 

Bowe,  Nicholas . . . 

Bowe,  Peter 

Boyle,  P.  A 

Brandmo,  E.  E.... 


Breed,  C.  E 433 

Bresina,  Thomas 80 

Bridgman,  W.  H 271 

Britton,  Robert 34 

Brooks,  H.  L 49 

Brooks.  J.  A 252 

Browne,  J.  H 152 

Bruss,  August 319 

Buchanan,  Daniel 189 

Buetow,  Levi 199 

Burnham,  E.  H 8 

Burns.  E.  F 270 

Butseher,  Albert 323 

Calder,  H.  J .* 276 

Callahan,  J.  J 166 

Cameron,  D.  H 149 

Camfield,  A.  M. 424 

Cance,  J.  M 388 

Cary,  T.  M 66 

Casper,  H.  A 247 

Chapman,  G.  H 289 

Christensen,  M.  A 364 

Christianson.  Christ 479 

Christianson,  Cornelius 220 

Christianson,  C.  L 9 

Christianson,  Iver 293 

Christianson,  John. 290 

Cleaves,  R.  L 61 

Coleman,  E.  H 239 

Conrad,  A.  C 241 

Cook,  D.  E 322 

Crank,  Fred 454 

Croft,  Lemore 377 

Culbertson.  C.  B 253 

Cutting,  F.  H 188 

Dee,  G.  E 426 

De  Kelver,  W.  E 43 

Dettloff,  E.  C 80 

Deuel,  N.  H 72 

Dickinson,  C.  H 129 

Dickinson,  Ida  E 172 

Dietrich,  J.  A 398 

Dietzler,  J.  J 16 

Dodmead,  J.  M 54 


191 

243 

150 

22 

111 

62 

249 

283 

476 

17 

90 

260 

21 

486 

96 

237 

330 

385 

114 

413 

312 

370 

444 

28 

137 

8 

442 

7 5 

82 

107 

168 

252 

229 

436 

327 

18 

92 

83 

358 

27 

203 

91 

83 

159 

275 


489 


490 


INDEX 


Donaldson,  Nathan 101 

Douglas,  Frank 385 

Duenow,  Carl 99 

Durch,  William  238 


Eder,  J.  L 197 

Edminster,  A.  J 328 

Ellensohn,  C.  S 359 

Ellenson,  E.  P . 214 

Ellis,  Julia  0 310 

Ellis,  P.  P 112 

Emerson,  A.  E 33 

Emerson,  Ole 110 

Emerson,  Peter  3 65 

Emerson.  R.  J 26 

Emmerton,  Charles 83 

Emmerton,  Thomas 274 

Enger,  Theodore . 423 

Erdman,  C.  H 366 

Ermatinger,  Daniel,  Jr 390 

Ernatinger,  Fred 302 

Evenson,  Eli 230 

Evison,  J.  A 387 

Eyk,  Gilbert 242 

Falbe,  Edward 70 

Favell,  P.  T 356 

Fehr.  Charles 459 

Felix.  P.  H 158 

Filtz,  T.  W 118 

Finstad,  A.  N 350 

Finstad,  George 285 

Firth,  E.  A 342 

Firth,  Magnus 204 

Fisk.  J.  B 31 

Fletcher,  A.  E 234 

Ford,  Arthur 64 

Foster,  J.  H.  A 401 

Foster,  Tom 329 


Frecenon,  Joseph 

Freeborn,  I.  L • , 

Friederick,  J.  A 

Friederiek,  Perry.  


Galbraith,  J.  B.. 
Gannon,  G.  B. . . . 
Ganzel.  Chris.... 
Ganzel,  Henry . . 
Gardner,  Frank. 
Gardner,  H.  W. . 
Garton,  Oscar.. 
Gates,  W.  H. . . . 
Gaynor,  A.  A.. . 
Gehl,  William.  . 
Gehring,  Conrad 
Gehring,  E.  C. .. 
Gehring,  Jacob. 
Geissler,  W.  J. . 


412 

23 

84 

362 

457 

160 

471 

383 

35 

478 

284 

50 

442 

113 


Germyn,  Thomas 108 

Giaugue,  C.  W 365 

Gladwell,  Leonard 192 

Goddard,  H.  J 486 

Goetz,  C.  L 157 

Goetz,  Henry  and  Brothers 105 

Goetz,  Rhineliardt 161 

Goodman,  Frank 352 

Goodman,  Mathias 178 

Gormley,  Bryan 146 

Gorton,  Percy 475 

Gourdoux,  Alexander 432 

Green,  Anson 261 

Grewe,  August 378 

Grewe,  William 210 

Grubb.  F.  S . 477 

Gruber,  Mathew 284 

Gundermann,  Nicholas 230 

Gwin,  A.  R 94 


Haag.  Adam 

Haag,  John 

Hagen,  Gust 

Halverson,  Andrew 

Halverson,  J.  B 

Hansen,  Christian  

Hansen,  J.  C 

Hanson,  Ole 

Hart,  L.  G.  W 

Hartman,  George,  Jr 

Hartmann,  George,  Sr 

Hartman.  Paul 

Haskins,  T.  B 

Haugen,  O.  C 

Hawn,  E.  L 

Heagle,  Edward 

Hebert,  Joseph 

Heiting,  Theodore 

Henderson,  E.  L 

Hendrickson.  C.  A 

Hendry,  R.  W 

Hennekens,  August 

Hennekens,  F.  W 

Hennemann,  Henry 

Henriksen,  M.  A 

Hickok,  D.  

Hillman,  W.  

Hilp,  J-  A 

Hilp,  William 

Hoeil,  Louis 

Hoff,  O.  T 

Hoff,  W.  T 

Hoidalil,  T.  A 

Holinbeck,  F.  M 

Holter,  Chris 

Horn,  Frank 

Horn.  William 


143 

254 

13 

264 

309 

422 

406 

399 

345 

85 

147 

211 

42 
263 

89 

389 

460 

340 

30 

294 

169 

52 

43 
437 
155 

53 
233 
146 
133 
100 
283 
287 
393 
368 
462 
1 22 
388 


INDEX 


491 


Hoveland,  Theodore 421 

Hunt.  A.  H 209 

Hurt,  Joseph 79 

Hutchinson,  W.  D 208 

Huth,  Emery 420 

Irvine,  William 314 

Jacobs,  Frank 351 

Jenkins, , Samuel 45 

Jensen,  Fred 357 

Joas,  Joseph 29 

Johnson,  A.  1 221 

Johnson,  J.  E 481 

Johnson,  O.  A 476 

Johnson,  Oscar . 480 

Johnson,  Rufus 248 

Johnson,  Theodore 228 

Johnson,  William 176 

Kaiser,  S.  R 326 

Kappus.  J.  F 148 

Kean,  D.  J 281 

Keller,  Charles 209 

Kelly,  J.  H 145 

Kennedy,  Bert 435 

Kennedy,  Charles 441 

King,  Thomas 296 

Kingsland,  I.  J 407 

Kitch,  W.  E 14 

Klages,  Ernest 182 

Klages,  Herman 186 

Klemke.  H.  F 144 

Knar,  John 282 

Kohler,  Joseph 181 

Korn,  Andrew 343 

Kramscliuster,  Bernard 323 

Kramschuster,  J.  B 434 

Kranzfelder,  Louis 262 

Krenz,  Charles  457 

Krenz,  M.  C 456 

Kubat,  J.  E 224 

Kuhn,  John 402 

Kuntz,  Henry 219 

La  Blanc,  R.  A 291 

Lang,  R.  A 212 

Larson,  Casper 462 

Larson,  William 218 

Lashway,  Frank 394 

Laurer,  J.  G 291 

Laursen,  A 151 

Lavelle,  F.  J 140 

Leahy,  P.  L 15 

Leege,  Ernest 59 

Leinenkugel,  Mathias  473 

Licht,  X.  Iv 405 


Liehe,  C.  H 348 

Lien,  A.  P 286 

Ling,  J.  E 293 

Ling,  P.  B 301 

Lintz,  A.  K 402 

Loofboro,  R.  E 455 

Lotz,  George 344 

Lund,  Isaac 449 


McCann,  Henry 

McDonald,  A.  R 

McDonald,  Frank . . . 

McDonald,  H.  K 

McGraw,  J.  H 

Mcllquham.  William 

McKay,  R.  E 

McRae,  H.  C 

McRae,  J.  C 

McWithey,  H.  E 

Maliony,  John 

Maier,  F.  J 

Mandelert.  L.  C 

Marriner,  Charles . . . 

Martin,  A.  J 

Martin,  F.  G 

Mason,  A.  H 

Mason,  George 

Matsche,  John 

Mattison,  B.  P 

Meagher,  Michael.  . . 

Meider,  H.  G 

Meier,  Fred 

Meier,  John  

Meier,  Robert 

Meinen.  Peter 

Melville,  Frank 

Melville.  J.  S 

Melville.  James  W. . . 
Melville,  John  W. . . 

Melville,  T.  W 

Metott,  Andrew,  Sr... 
Metott,  Andrew,  Jr.  . 

Meyer,  Herman 

Michaels,  Peter 

Michels,  Peter 

Miller,  F.  0 

Miller,  J.  P 

Miller,  W.  M 

Millions,  Carrie  F..  . . 

Misfeldt.  H.  J 

Mondoux,  Louis  

Montgomery,  W.  A. . 

Moore,  Christ  

Moore.  F.  C 

Moore,  H.  H 

Moray.  R.  D.  C. 

Morris,  Henry 


337 
60 
419 
187 
222 
138 
240 
. 47 
73 
207 
197 
104 
227 
41 
211 

51 
369 
357 
191 
260 
157 
141 
199 
199 
454 
190 
180 
102 
179 
171 
166 
175 
167 
106 

71 

.403 

273 

52 
272 
318 

55 

150 

44 

346 

395 

361 

464 

156 


492 


INDEX 


Morris,  J.  A 482 

Morrison,  J.  A 417 

Mullen,  Andrew  473 

Mullen,  J.  C 459 

Mullen,  Math  435 

Mullen,  Rasmus  456 

Muller,  Valentine  123 

Mullin,  Elizabeth  265 

Munro,  J.  H 221 

Munroe,  F.  L 338 

Munroe,  R.  S 304 

Murphy,  J.  R 134 

Myers,  A.  A 292 

Myrman,  Erick 380 

Nabor,  William 331 

Nagle,  W.  F 11 

Nechvatal,  Anton  440 

Nelson,  Christ  463 

Nelson,  Edward  15 

Nelson,  John  384 

Nelson,  N.  0 232 

Nelson,  Samuel  420 

Ness,  Richard  300 

Newman,  L.  M 12 

Nicholson,  J.  J 294 

Nilson,  John  131 

Nimmons,  S.  B 317 

Nordin,  J.  0 131 

Nystrom,  Olof  133 


Oakland,  John  415 

O’Donnell,  Gerald  135 

O’Donnell,  Patrick  13b 

Olson,  Gilbert  473 

Olson,  N.  G 362 

Olson,  P.  B 470 

O’Rourke,  John  441 


Paine,  J.  T 

Paul,  Peter 

Paulus,  Joseph  . . 
Pedersen,  Carl  . . . 
Pederson,  Andrew 
Peterson,  Bernhard 
Peterson,  Otto  . . . 
Peterson,  Paulus  . 
Petska,  Alfred  . . . 
Petska,  Frank .... 
Pfaff,  Henry  .... 
Phillips,  John  . . . 
Phillips,  Lucy  . . . 
Phillips,  W.  H..  . . 
Piotrowski,  J.  B.. 

Pitseh,  F.  C 

Plagge,  August  . . 
Porter,  Edward  . . 


451 
376 

452 
223 
479 
303 
363 
301 
471 
103 
109 
250 

10 

130 

244 

305 

32 

162 


Powers,  H.  F 414 

Poznanski,  J.  E 76 

Poznanski,  M.  A 200 

Prince,  J.  E 299 

Prince,  William  132 

Prueher,  J.  G 303 

Rageot,  Bernard  418 

Rasmus,  Martin  481 

Raven,  J.  W 269 

Rheingans,  E.  C 74 

Rheingans,  G.  E 288 

Rice,  H.  0 287 

Ritchey  , Robert  360 

Roe,  Imbert  265 

Roe,  L.  1 295 

Roycraft,  Thomas  217 


Saltier,  William 

Savord,  Jacob 

Scheidecker,  Ernest  .... 

Scheidecker,  F.  C 

Schmock,  Herman  

Schnoor,  Chris  

Schroeder,  Charles 

Scliroeder,  William  

Sehroetter,  H.  G 

Schultz,  Carl  

Schultz,  C.  F 

Schultz,  W.  D 

Schwab.  John  

Scritsmier,  F.  A.  R 

Sebesta,  James  

Selb,  Robert  

Shafer,  Samuel  

Shafer,  S.  W 

Sharp.  R.  A 

Shipman,  E.  F 

Shong,  W.  W 

SiddoTis,  F.  V 

Siddons,  S.  B 

Siepert,  William  

Simnicht,  L.  A 

Simon,  William  

Sippel,  Julius  

Smetana,  W.  J 

Smith,  C.  L 

Smith.  Edwin  

Sneen,  A.  N 

Snyder.  J.  0 

Snyder,  Samuel  

Solberg,  Anton 

Soli,  A.  L 

Sowle,  G.  F 

Stafford,  W.  H 

Starr.  F.  W 


366 

308 

439 

50 

325 

461 

468 

437 

120 

379 
142 
351 
242 
423 
452 
170 

24 
7 

228 

249 

307 

69 

25 
95 

431 

128 

161 

76 

321 

416 

320 

430 

400 

127 

311 

65 

380 
306 


INDEX 


Steinmetz,  F.  S 

Stelter,  Oscar  

Sterzik,  O.  F 

Stevens,  L.  P 

Stewart,  G.  A 

Stockwell,  W.  J.  & Son 

Stoll,  W.  C 

Strong,  C.  G 

Summerfield,  William 

Sundet,  C 

Sundet,  John  

Svetlik.  W.  B 

Syverson,  B.  A 

Theriault.  J.  B 

Thomas,  J.  W 

Thompson,  F.  J 

Thompson.  F.  W 

Thorp.  0.  H 

Thronson,  Andrew 

Tinker,  H.  L 

Toft,  C.  M 

Tonnaneour,  Leonard  . 

Town,  H.  A 

Trankle,  H.  M 

Turecek,  John 

Turner,  A.  J 

Turner,  Gottleib  

Tusehl,  Anton 

Vaudreuil,  Ludger 

Verhulst,  Lawrence 
Viles,  B.  D 


49:1 


Wagner,  Frank  443 

Wallace,  J.  F 324 

Walsdorf,  Joseph  . 349 

Walter,  B.  J 438 

Walter,  E.  G 438 

i'Wanish,  Edward  339 

Watson,  J.  A 318 

Waugh,  W.  G 474 

Weigand,  F.  S 397 

Weiher,  Gustav  464 

Weissenberg,  George  396 

Weyenberg,  L.  C 395 

Weyenberg.  W.  A 386 

Wilcox,  L.  A 355 

Wilcox,  W.  M 382 

Wilkowske,  C.  W 344 

W’illson,  Leslie  5 

Wilmarth,  A.  W 86 

Wirth,  Jacob  451 

Wolf,  W.  H 121 

Wolter,  E.  E 367 

Woodard.  F.  B 450 

Woodruff,  Emma  332 

Fright.  0.  G 30 

jFright.  S.  H 198 

Yates,  S.  M 182 

fohnk,  L.  H 425 

iiebell,  Fred  458 

limmerman,  Frank  46 

Zimmerman,  R.  L 60 

Zriefelhofer,  Joseph  415 


93 

201 

202 

480 

124 

341 

36 

376 

469 

56 

104 

286 

131 

213 

408 

251 

467 

347 

404 

63 

313 

48 

33 

418 

474 

453 

138 

266 

159 

231 


Vol  IX— 2 7 


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